Lead Scientist - Material and Process

Kimberly-Clark • Neenah, WI

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Natural Solutions Business Unit is seeking a Lead Scientist to provide technical expertise and leadership in the areas of material and process learnings for innovative natural non-wood fibers commercialization. With strong research capabilities, teamwork skills, and industrial experience, you will work with cross-functional teams including Product Development, Supply Chain, Engineering, Operation, Statisticians, and analytical labs to bring fiber solutions from bench to commercialization. Through collaboration and teamwork, you will use scientific research methods and statistical skills to understand fiber and paper fundamentals related to this innovative natural fiber. Apply deep understanding of fiber morphology, chemistry, bonding, and structure–property relationships to guide fiber process selection, treatment, and optimization. Translate tissue and nonwoven finished product performance requirements and user experience into actionable fiber design criteria. Lead fiber characterization and performance evaluation in manufacturing quality control, linking key process parameters to fiber properties. Lead/Support process scale-up trials for the commercialization of natural non-wood fibers using strong engineering fundamentals. Lead and/or support trials from bench and pilot scale through commercialization, including, Start‑up, scale‑up, and optimization support Provide technical guidance for operators on trial execution. Use data analytics, statistics, and machine learning tools (preferred) to analyze products and process data and guide decisions. Communicate findings clearly using technical reports, visuals, data summaries, and presentations to support alignment and decision‑making. Collaborate cross‑functionally with chemistry, product development, engineering, operations, quality, EH&S, and supply chain teams. Work with external partners, including equipment suppliers and technical service providers, to scale and commercialize new technologies. Own defined project responsibilities, delivering results on time and within scope while managing technical risks. Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, ensuring developed processes and products meet applicable standards and guidelines. Ability to travel up to 30%.

Requirements

• Bachelors or Advanced degree (MS or PhD preferred) or equivalent experience in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Pulp & Paper Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 3 years or more of experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge in areas such as biomass pretreatment and pulping, fiber characterization and structure–property relationships, and application of natural fibers in paper and/or nonwoven products.
• Proven ability to apply scientific methods, creativity, and sound judgment to solve complex technical problems.
• Experience working in cross-functional, collaborative environments and driving technology from early concept to commercialization.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with data analytics, statistical analysis, or modeling applied to material or process development.
• Familiarity with pilot scale operations and manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to sustainability driven materials or renewable fiber platforms.
• Machine learning tools (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise and leadership in material and process learnings for innovative natural non-wood fibers commercialization.
• Work with cross-functional teams to bring fiber solutions from bench to commercialization.
• Use scientific research methods and statistical skills to understand fiber and paper fundamentals.
• Apply deep understanding of fiber morphology, chemistry, bonding, and structure–property relationships to guide fiber process selection, treatment, and optimization.
• Translate finished product performance requirements and user experience into actionable fiber design criteria.
• Lead fiber characterization and performance evaluation in manufacturing quality control.
• Lead/Support process scale-up trials for the commercialization of natural non-wood fibers.
• Lead and/or support trials from bench and pilot scale through commercialization.
• Provide technical guidance for operators on trial execution.
• Use data analytics, statistics, and machine learning tools to analyze products and process data and guide decisions.
• Communicate findings clearly using technical reports, visuals, data summaries, and presentations.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with various teams.
• Work with external partners to scale and commercialize new technologies.
• Own defined project responsibilities, delivering results on time and within scope while managing technical risks.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety.

Benefits

• Eligibility for a target bonus
• Comprehensive benefits suite
• 401(k) and Profit Sharing plan
• Flexible work model that blends remote work with intentional in-person collaboration

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees