Product QC & Application Specialist - Pallmann Brand

Uzin Utz North America•Waco, TX

3h•Onsite

About The Position

The Product QC & Application Specialist-PALLMANN is a dual-role position that supports the Product Management & Technical Training Services department by ensuring both product quality and real-world applicability of flooring installation systems. In the QC function, this role acts as the final checkpoint for finished products received from our parent company in Germany, including preparing drawdown cards, retaining reference samples, and reviewing products when field issues arise to help determine whether the root cause is product-related or application-related. In the Application Specialist function, this role applies and evaluates new and existing products to assess workability, consistency, standardization, and overall compatibility under real-world installation conditions. As needed, the specialist also supports training schools and technical training by assisting with demonstrations and ensuring proper product application by students and participants. This role will have a dotted line reporting to the VP of Pallmann Sales.

Requirements

High School or GED equivalent
5+ years of experience in flooring installation, including subfloor preparation
Hands-on expertise with primers, moisture mitigation membranes, patching and leveling compounds, mortars, adhesives, and various flooring materials.
Experience defining and conducting tests in line with ASTM standards, industry best practices, and BMPs.
Proficient with Windows OS, Microsoft Office, and data reporting tools.
Knowledge of TSCA regulations, SDS interpretation, and industry testing standards (ASTM/BMPs).
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills with attention to detail.
Effective written/verbal communication and ability to deliver technical training.
Collaborative team player with interpersonal skills to resolve conflict and build trust.

Nice To Haves

Prior exposure to field installations, product trials, and compatibility testing preferred.
Demonstrated ability to train others in flooring application techniques and product technologies.

Responsibilities

Serve as the final QC checkpoint for finished products received from the parent company in Germany, ensuring the product meets internal standards before release.
Prepare and evaluate drawdown cards and retain reference samples for ongoing quality monitoring and traceability.
When field issues arise, pull and evaluate retain samples to help determine whether the root cause is related to product quality or application/installation practices.
Test products according to ASTM standards, industry standards, and best manufacturing practices (BMPs) where applicable.
Define and execute test methods and test environments in collaboration with R&D, Product Management, and Technical Services to ensure high reproducibility and reliability of test results.
Provide clear, computerized status reports summarizing testing activities, nonconforming items, and any concerns related to product performance (both in-development and finished goods).
Compare similar materials (internal and competitive) to identify and highlight differences in performance, application characteristics, and product properties with a high level of attention to detail.
Apply and evaluate new and existing flooring installation products (e.g., primers, moisture mitigation membranes, patching and leveling compounds, adhesives, sealers, finishes, and machines) under realistic field conditions.
Assess products for workability, consistency, standardization, and overall compatibility, providing practical, installer-focused feedback to all brand stakeholders.
Test products in combination with other flooring products and systems to verify compatibility and support field specifications and recommendations.
In collaboration with R&D, provide direction and feedback for improving product properties and application characteristics based on hands-on testing and field-relevant evaluations.
Coordinate and support product testing and installation at customer project sites when needed, helping to validate performance in real-world environments.
Organize, maintain, and keep in good working order the application testing area and equipment at the Waco facility.
Assist with training schools and technical trainings, supporting instructors and participants to ensure proper application techniques and best practices are followed.
Help develop and refine training materials (presentations, demos, guides, mock-ups) related to product application techniques and new product technologies.
Conduct or support hands-on demonstrations for internal staff, installers, distributors, and other external audiences on site, at the Waco facility, or at customer locations.
Maintain a working knowledge of current test methods, standards, and flooring installation technologies, and apply this knowledge in training, testing, and product evaluations.
Maintain accurate documentation and follow all safety, housekeeping, and quality procedures in the lab, application, and training areas.
Perform other duties as assigned. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all activities, duties, or responsibilities; these may change at any time with or without notice.