Development Engineer

HEXPOL TPE Americas•Broadview, IL

6d•$50,000 - $70,000

About The Position

Hexpol TPE Americas LLC is a leading provider of high-performance thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), specializing in advanced materials solutions that serve a wide range of industries including automotive, medical, consumer goods, and industrial applications. As part of the global Hexpol Group, we are dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and delivering exceptional quality through custom-engineered TPE products that offer superior performance, durability, and flexibility. Overview We are seeking a passionate and energetic Development Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will drive the development of innovative TPE formulations and materials, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to bring cutting-edge solutions from concept to production. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated professional eager to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in materials technology.

Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
This is a fast-paced position that requires flexibility and a willingness to cooperate with others to meet daily demands.
Must be organized, professional, able to prioritize work, and customer-service oriented.
The ability to follow detailed instructions is critical.
Have self-discipline and stay on task without supervision.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word and Excel required together with instrument related software use.
Collaboration - Collaboration across departments and disciplines. Work closely with sales, production, and other departments to ensure that quality efforts are aligned with the organization’s overall objectives.
High degree of attention to detail and diligence.
Ability to analyze problems, conduct experiments, and make data-supported decisions.
Hands-on work style, with a desire to work in laboratory and manufacturing setting.
Strong work ethic and demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of troubleshooting analytical equipment.
Planning and project management skills.
Professionalism, creativity, and enthusiasm to get things done and convince internal and external partners / alliances.
Good mathematical and problem solving / reasoning skills.
Time management and planning – ability to meet tight deadlines.
Bachelor’s degree required, in Chemistry, Material Science, Polymer Science and Engineering, or closely related field.
Experience in analytical instrumentation- polymers testing.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Thermoplastic elastomers is a plus.
Familiarity with structure/properties relationships of elastomers and related polymers with a focus on methods used for their characterization.
Thorough understanding of the properties of elastomers, and interaction between the relevant polymer materials and additives.

Responsibilities

Responsible for design, evaluation, and reporting on TPE product development at the lab and pilot to meet standards and troubleshoot any issues based on root cause analysis.
Responsible for testing polymeric materials and additives in the lab.
Drives the technology development process and actively participates in the identification and analysis of new materials.
Work with sales team presenters to understand their needs and translate them into product designs, and present on technical problems and developments.
Design and plan R&D trials in coordination with sales, customer service, and manufacturing.
Develop and transfer test protocols.
Participates in cross-functional project teams as required.
Coordinate, consolidate, and analyze new TPE structure/property characterization and support customer-related testing needs.
Maintains relationships with customers and suppliers and provides technical presentations in industry-level forums.
Work collaboratively with the supporting teams to implement testing protocols across departments.
Consolidate R&D data into new database and organize recipes in new templates.
Support R&D department to facilitate all internal activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.