Polymer Scientist

ENTEK INTERNATIONAL LLC•Lebanon, OR

34d

About The Position

Summary Description: This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes designed for breathable membrane and other applications. The position requires a detailed technical understanding of porous materials, characterization techniques, structure-property relationships, and process optimization as related to ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Duties/Responsibilities: Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes. Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies. Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings Files provisional patents on new developments Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes. Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity. Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE’s and other work area standards Represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers. Adopt ENTEK culture and core values. The position accomplishes these responsibilities through a respectful, constructive, and energetic style, guided by ENTEK’s Core Values, strategic objectives, and Servant Leadership. This position will represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with partners, suppliers, and customers.

Requirements

Computer savvy
Superb English written and verbal skills
Excellent presentation skills
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment and with cross-functional professionals
High drive for results and advanced problem-solving skills
Finds innovative solutions to problems
Strong background in porous materials and polymer science
Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and experiments
Be the technical face of the company in front of key customer(s)
Expertise level in porous materials and polymer science
Strong work ethic with a desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering
>3 years of experience, including post-doctoral fellowship, if any.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in UHMWPE gel processing, blown film technology, characterization of porous materials, experimental design, and Lean principles is highly desired.
Prior experience in research and development of breathable membranes or filtration membranes.
Background in basic statistics, experimental design, and Minitab software is preferred.

Responsibilities

Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes.
Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies.
Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products
Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities
Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods
Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required
Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings
Files provisional patents on new developments
Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes.
Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity.
Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE’s and other work area standards
Represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers.
Adopt ENTEK culture and core values.