Tire Materials Engineer

Nokian Tyres • Dayton, TN

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Reporting directly to the Senior R&D Manager, the Tire Materials Engineer identifies process improvement opportunities, implements new rubber compounds and reinforcement materials, and drives product improvements through material and compound innovations. The role supports manufacturing excellence by ensuring robust, efficient, and sustainable tire production processes.

The position leads the development, validation, and implementation of materials, compounds, manufacturing processes, and equipment improvements; supports new product introductions; and works across R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, and Supply Chain. It also promotes Lean manufacturing and safe work practices, helps maintain product quality and manufacturing yields, and shares technical knowledge across the organization.

The role is primarily office-based within a manufacturing facility, with regular presence in production areas. Production-area conditions can include noise, moving machinery, industrial vehicles, seasonally varying temperatures of approximately 65°F to 100°F, and exposure to odors or airborne particulates associated with industrial materials.

Requirements

• At least seven years of industrial or manufacturing experience.
• At least five years of hands-on experience in the tire industry.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across organizational levels.
• Ability to solve complex technical challenges through in-depth analysis, sound judgment, and creative problem-solving.
• Leadership skills, including the ability to establish challenging objectives and achieve results through collaboration and team engagement.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a root-cause-analysis mindset.
• Working knowledge of applied statistics, Design of Experiments (DOE), cause-and-effect analysis, risk assessment methodologies, Lean Manufacturing principles, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
• Strong understanding of rubber compounding, reinforcement materials, and tire manufacturing processes.
• High attention to detail and focus on prevention-based quality systems.
• Experience with error-proofing methodologies and risk mitigation techniques.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work overtime and weekends as business needs require.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• An advanced degree (MBA or M.S.) is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Implement departmental policies, strategies, and objectives that support Nokian Tyres operational and sustainability goals.
• Lead the development, validation, and implementation of raw materials, reinforcement materials, rubber compounds, manufacturing processes, and equipment improvements to support manufacturability, efficiency, and profitability.
• Drive continuous improvement in compound development, material performance, manufacturing methods, and process control.
• Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, and Supply Chain to introduce materials, technologies, and best practices.
• Ensure compound and material implementation complies with the Quality Management System and global standards.
• Support new product introductions through stable, capable manufacturing processes and robust material performance.
• Promote Lean manufacturing principles and safe work practices consistent with company values.
• Maintain product and rubber compound quality and manufacturing yields while supporting optimal resource use and adherence to safety standards.
• Support implementation and sustainability of Lean Manufacturing and 5S initiatives.
• Analyze processes and practices, identify improvement opportunities, and implement corrective actions.
• Share technical knowledge and best practices with colleagues across the organization.
• Provide technical support and collaboration to other departments as needed.
• Lead by example through positive reinforcement, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on day one.
• 401(k) eligibility after one month.
• 401(k) matching of 100% on the first 6%.
• Short-term incentive plan.
• Employee assistance program.
• Employee discounts.
• Life insurance.
• Disability insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Onsite fitness facility.
• Wellness benefits.
• Career advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior