Lead Research and Development Scientist/Engineer I

Gentex Corporation•Zeeland, MI

10d

About The Position

Lead the discovery, development, and improvement of Gentex technology through research and development, testing, and evaluation of novel technologies, processes, and applications. The role advances new product offerings by developing materials, devices, processes, and products and solving scientific challenges across development and production. The position works with cross-functional teams and key disciplines, coordinates laboratory and product testing activities, and contributes to technical collaboration and smooth product launches. It also involves mentoring colleagues, consulting internally and externally, preparing technical documentation and reports, and may include managing and supervising staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science, Mathematics, or a related field.
At least 7 years of relevant research experience.
Proven ability to manage or contribute to a technical project that generates focused new ideas to solve critical new product and process problems.
Demonstrated success guiding and mentoring junior personnel.
Substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories in the area of expertise.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Analytical thinking, nimble learning, technical expertise, action orientation, and ability to cultivate innovation.
Ability to build teams, lead by example, mentor and coach, and provide timely constructive and positive feedback.
Honesty, integrity, and confidentiality in handling company matters.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or PhD in Engineering, Science, or a related field.
Ability to quickly comprehend and apply new technology and be proactive.
Demonstrated interdisciplinary technical skills.
Ability to engage appropriate disciplines for the problem at hand.
Ability to communicate with people with different skill sets and levels.
Motivation by discovery and problem solving, balanced with sound business judgment.

Responsibilities

Achieve business objectives involving new materials, devices, and processes that advance the company’s new product offerings.
Assist in developing new production processes, materials, and products.
Contribute to the strategy for Gentex patent filings, prosecutions, and related activities.
Identify suppliers or development partners whose products or technologies can improve quality, reduce cost, or simplify manufacturing.
Document and analyze experimental data, maintaining accurate notebooks or databases of results.
Prepare technical reports, summaries, and analyses.
Apply established principles, theories, and concepts across disciplines to solve development and production challenges.
Coordinate broader teams to evaluate identified technologies.
Manage cross-functional teams, lead meetings, take minutes, track progress, and report findings to senior leadership.
Coordinate laboratory activities related to research projects across R&D groups.
Mentor and coach group members in their research and development duties.
Serve as an in-house and outside consultant.
Work with key disciplines to solve complex problems, perform development projects, and support smooth product launches into production.
Coordinate assembly and testing of new products and processes.
Lead technical collaboration with members of other sections or divisions.
May manage and supervise staff, including hiring, onboarding, performance evaluation, communicating expectations, and handling or supporting disciplinary actions in accordance with company policies and procedures.
Solve difficult scientific problems using professional concepts and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Comply with company policies, procedures, and safety regulations; perform duties safely and promote a safe workplace.