Principal R&D Engineer - Color Chemistry
About The Position
The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL’s core technology. This role involves developing a roadmap for next-generation product innovations and leading platform-level programs. The engineer will design and develop stable pigment and dye formulations tailored for TPU substrates and high-performance topcoats, evaluate pigment chemistries for various properties, and build/optimize pigment and dye dispersion methodologies. Responsibilities include establishing spectrophotometric methods, developing predictive algorithms for color requests, designing pigment masterbatches, collaborating with process engineers for technology transfer, leading patent identification, and staying current with emerging technologies. The role also involves providing technical solutions, bridging the gap from bench scale to manufacturing, developing plans for specifications and integration, serving as a technical interface to vendors, and improving existing processes through R&D. A strong understanding of polymer chemistry, extrusion, and film industry technologies is essential, along with developing and executing testing methodologies to meet industry standards.
Requirements
- B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience
- Strong background in pigment chemistry, dispersion science, and optical property measurement with deep knowledge of pigment/dye chemistry, stabilization mechanisms, and degradation pathways.
- Proficiency in dispersion technologies (high shear mixing, bead milling, ultrasonics, etc.).
- Hands-on expertise with spectrophotometry, colorimetry, haze measurement, and gloss testing.
- Experience in formulation-to-scale-up translation for pigment masterbatches or coatings.
- Familiarity with UV stabilizers, antioxidants, and optical brighteners for polymer systems.
- Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.
- Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization
- Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability
- Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated experience in polyurethane systems, TPU, or optical coatings strongly preferred.
- Advanced Degree preferred
Responsibilities
- Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs
- Design and develop stable pigment and dye formulations tailored for TPU substrates and high-performance topcoats.
- Evaluate pigment chemistries for transparency, UV resistance, weathering stability, and compatibility with film matrices.
- Build and optimize pigment and dye dispersion methodologies that deliver high optical clarity, minimal haze, and consistent batch-to-batch performance.
- Apply advanced surfactants, dispersants, and milling technologies to achieve submicron uniformity in pigment particles.
- Establish spectrophotometric methods and digital libraries for accurate, reproducible color measurement and prediction.
- Develop predictive algorithms or models to streamline customer-specific color requests and reduce formulation cycles.
- Design pigment masterbatches and concentrate systems suitable for pilot-scale and production-scale extrusion or coating processes.
- Collaborate with process engineers and manufacturing partners to ensure seamless technology transfer and industrial implementation.
- Lead the identification and filing of patents in color-stable transparent and semi-transparent films.
- Stay current with emerging pigment, dye, and coating technologies to continuously advance company capabilities.
- Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams
- Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process
- Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability
- Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers
- Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility
- Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry
- Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards
- Other duties as assigned
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
