Manager, Materials Research Laboratory

Simpson Strong-Tie•West Chicago, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Simpson Strong-Tie is a leader in engineered structural connectors, software, and solutions for the building industry. We maintain a reputation as a trusted manufacturer, partner, and corporate citizen committed to our customers and employees. Our founder, Barc Simpson established 9 Principles of Business we live out as company values and have made Simpson Strong-Tie an inspiring place to work since 1956. Our team of talented people are dedicated to our shared mission: to provide solutions that help people design and build safer, stronger structures. Learn about our company culture directly from our team . YOU Based in West Chicago, IL, the Manager, West Chicago Materials Research Laboratory leads a team of Laboratory Technicians and owns end‑to-end lab operations—safety, training, material procurement, scheduling, equipment upkeep/maintenance/operation, and accreditations—while providing technical leadership on the testing and qualification of concrete anchors. The role collaborates closely with Research & Development Engineers working on adhesive and mechanical concrete anchors, engineers focused on fastener and anchor coating technologies, Research & Development Chemists specializing in adhesive anchor technologies, Product Engineering Chemists supporting adhesive anchor manufacturing, and Product Engineers and Product Managers for adhesive and mechanical anchors to plan, execute, and interpret laboratory programs that inform product development, manufacturing, quality, and certification. The ideal leader brings extensive knowledge of fastener and concrete‑anchor materials, coatings, and manufacturing methods; deep expertise in anchor test methods and qualification; and working knowledge of adhesive anchor chemistry and concrete mix design to drive safe, compliant, and efficient laboratory performance.

Requirements

Minimum 7+ years of experience in materials research, product testing, or engineering roles, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.
Extensive knowledge of concrete anchor testing and qualification standards (e.g., ICC-ES, ASTM, ACI).
Strong understanding of fastener and concrete anchor materials, coatings, and manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with laboratory accreditation requirements and quality systems.
Proven ability to lead and develop technical teams, including Laboratory Technicians.
Skilled in managing laboratory operations, safety programs, scheduling, and resource planning.
Experience driving continuous improvement and implementing best practices in a research environment.
Demonstrated success working cross-functionally with R&D Engineers, Chemists, Product Engineers, and Product Managers.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to influence stakeholders and present technical findings clearly.
Highly organized with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Comfortable balancing strategic priorities with hands-on technical involvement.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
Working knowledge of adhesive anchor chemistry and concrete mix design principles.

Responsibilities

Technical Leadership in Testing & Qualification (30%): Lead and guide testing and qualification processes for concrete anchors, ensuring adherence to industry standards and internal protocols. Interpret results to support product development and certification efforts.
Cross-Functional Collaboration (25%): Partner with Research & Development Engineers, Chemists, Product Engineers, and Product Managers to align laboratory activities with adhesive and mechanical anchor technologies, coating innovations, and manufacturing needs.
Laboratory Operations Management (20%): Oversee all aspects of the West Chicago Materials Research Laboratory, including safety compliance, training programs, material procurement, scheduling, equipment upkeep and maintenance, and ensuring proper operation and accreditation of laboratory systems.
Continuous Improvement & Process Development (20%): Drive improvements in laboratory workflows, equipment utilization, and testing methodologies. Identify opportunities for efficiency, accuracy, and innovation in material research and anchor qualification processes.
Strategic Planning & Reporting (5%): Develop and maintain laboratory performance metrics, prepare reports for leadership, and contribute to strategic planning for future research initiatives and technology advancements.