R&D Engineer

Carlisle Construction Materials•Chandler, AZ

About The Position

We’re seeking a forward-thinking R&D Engineer to help shape the future of sustainable building materials. In this role, you’ll lead the development of advanced systems for processing and forming natural fiber batt insulation—materials like recycled denim and cotton—into high-performance, environmentally responsible products. You’ll work at the intersection of material science, mechanical design, and process engineering to solve complex challenges in fiber handling, forming, and batt structure optimization. From lab-scale experimentation to full-scale manufacturing trials, your work will directly impact product performance, operational efficiency, and our Vision 2030 goals. This full-time role is expected to work according to the manufacturing plant scheduled hours, Monday through Friday. Much of the work will be hands-on in the manufacturing facilities. Up to 25% travel may be required based on project needs, training, offsite meetings, and conferences.

Requirements

Expert level proficiency in communication and leadership.
Ability to work at a high conceptual level providing novel approaches but can also dive into details to mentor staff/teams.
Employs a logical scientific approach to identify and initiate development projects.
Approaches problems in an analytical way.
Mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand and run various pieces of lab and manufacturing equipment.
Understanding of various construction practices.
Works well with others – utilizes all resources available to the fullest.
Ability to establish professional networks both within the company and with outside entities.
Ensures accurate and timely documentation of all work.
Provides leadership by example regarding safe work practices.
Completes assignments in a timely manner.
Strong organizational skills including sample management and storage.
Safe lab practices including chemical handing, sample preparation and use of all cutting tools and equipment.
A Bachelor’s degree in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or chemical engineering.
Demonstrated ability to work across functional areas and business.
At least 5 years of firsthand experience in a technical role.
A proven record of initiating and managing innovation, and use of design to achieve results.
Expertise with maintenance, development, and project management techniques.
Hands-on experience with prototyping, pilot lines, or manufacturing equipment.
Knowledge of sustainable design principles and circular materials.

Nice To Haves

Master’s or PhD in material science, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering.
5 or more years of experience in an R&D or Product Management capacity specific to natural fiber or other nonwoven building products.
2 years of experience in a construction materials manufacturing support role.
Conceptual knowledge of residential and commercial building science.
Knowledge of building codes and regulations.

Responsibilities

Provide R&D support to the manufacturing team, scientists, plant engineers, and project managers to help enhance organic growth in the fiber insulation
Design and refine systems for separating, conditioning, and forming natural fibers into consistent, high-quality batts.
Develop new methods to improve fiber dispersion, weight uniformity, and thermal performance.
Explore novel forming technologies to enhance product structure and integrity.
Identify innovative materials compatible with the system to augment product performance.
Translate lab insights into scalable, plant-ready solutions.
Build and test prototypes, conduct pilot trials, and support implementation in manufacturing environments.
Collaborate with equipment vendors and research partners to accelerate development.
Develop project schedules, incorporating key tactical items for other functional Plans out in detail technical portions of all projects including operational pieces.
Present technical information to a non-technical audience, and effectively present complex or conflicting information.
Foster new product introductions and scale-up process from concept to commercialization.
Establish and maintain the quality program for fiber insulation.
Work in partnership with multiple functional areas (including manufacturing, purchasing and sales) to establish strategic plans and objectives materials and system solutions.
Interpret voice of the customer (VOC) and provide guidance on product development and troubleshooting.
Solve problems of diverse scope, including product/process development, product/process improvement, field issue resolution, manufacturing efficiencies, and outsourcing support.
Deliver design advances for product and process development.
Network internally and externally, to acquire information for projects and identify future opportunities.
Identify new opportunities to provide the basis for technical projects; includes Revolutionary and Evolutionary advances.
Operational and Supply Chain
Collaborate and lead cross-functionally to ensure that all facets of product development are accomplished smoothly.
Investigate and resolve product issues.
Utilize Phase-Gate process to manage R&D portfolio and mentor the use of appropriate project management tools.
Laboratory work including statistical data analysis, fabrication of prototypes and root cause investigation.
Conduct review meetings as necessary to ensure that the Product and Process Development priorities are aligned with those of management of the functional areas (Administration, Sales and Marketing, Operations, Logistics, Quality, EH&S, etc.)
Expectation to understand, participate in, and support company COS initiatives, with focus on developing a lean mindset.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance- DAY 1
Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
Leave & Disability Income Protection (FMLA, LOA, PPL, STD, LTD)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Health Advocate – health care concierge service
PTO – sick days, 11 holidays, vacation
401K Retirement Savings Plan with company match
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Flexible Spending accounts (commuter benefits, flexible spending accounts, health savings account)
College Scholarships for Dependents
Tuition Reimbursement