Technical Group Leader/Manager (E-Coat)

Nippon Paint Automotive Americas, Inc.•Cleveland, OH

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Nippon Paint Automotive Americas Inc. (NPAA) is seeking a Technical Group Leader/Manager with expertise in E-Coat. This role involves managing a team and critical projects, fostering inter-departmental communication, building strategic relationships with customers and suppliers, and leading continuous improvement initiatives. The position requires a strong technical background in polymer chemistry, coating formulation, surface chemistry, corrosion science, and electrocoating. The ideal candidate will have proven problem-solving skills, experience in a chemical laboratory, and the ability to manage multiple projects. NPAA offers a competitive compensation package including bonuses, paid time off, health benefits, and a 401K plan with a company match. They also provide employee recognition programs and tuition reimbursement, emphasizing a family-like work environment with employee appreciation events.

Requirements

College degree in chemistry or related technical field with typically 5 years or more of experience in industrial or automotive e-coat industry.
Good understanding of structure-property relationship in polymer chemistry, and coating/surface treatment formulation.
Strong understanding of surface chemistry, corrosion science and electrocoating knowledge.
Familiar with typical analytical chemistry techniques.
Must have proven success in resolving technical problems in a timely manner.
Capable of managing multiple technical projects simultaneously to successful completion.
Experience working in a chemical laboratory required.
Able to work in proximity to paints and chemicals, using required PPE as required.
Ability to lift 50 lbs.
Well-developed computer skills including Microsoft Office applications to analyze data and report.
Well-developed interpersonal skills, displaying courtesy, tact and respect when dealing with internal and external shareholders.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to inquiries, and/or complaints.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred, but not required.
Managerial and/or supervisor level experience preferred, but not required if customer support and collaborative project experience is significant.

Responsibilities

Management of team and critical projects that may span multiple NPAA locations to meet project timelines ensuring technology/formulation is brought to market when needed.
Interfaces and strengthens communication with other departments, locations and divisions (including executive management) to develop strategies to gain new business, prioritize projects or resolve other ongoing challenges.
Establishes and maintains strategic relationships with key OEM, customer and supplier contacts.
Identifies, initiates and leads continuous improvement projects to drive business process enhancement and develop technical expertise.
Writes and/or reviews reports documenting product development, meeting minutes, monthly reports, management reviews.
Presents technical data, company offerings and strategies to customers or internal shareholders.
Ensures adherence to formulation, safety, environmental, and other company standards or processes, providing documented approval where required.
Travel from 10-25% of the time depending on business situation, including international travel on occasion.