R&D Engr/Scientist II

Role Overview:

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Manufacturing Engineer to join our R&D, Thermal Interface Materials (TIM) team. This role focuses on supporting new process and technology introduction, resolving manufacturing and quality issues, and driving continuous improvement in a chemical manufacturing environment. The Manufacturing Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth technology transfer, stable manufacturing operations, and consistent product quality.

Key Responsibilities

New Process & Technology Introduction

• Support the set-up, start-up, and stabilization of new manufacturing processes, equipment, and technologies for polymer, plastic, or chemical manufacturing.
• Collaborate with Process engineers, operations, and external vendors to ensure effective technology transfer and scale-up.
• Support process trials and initial production run to confirm manufacturing readiness.
• Establish, and maintain process parameters, operating conditions, and documentation for new processes, equipment, and technologies.
• Provide technical support and training to manufacturing teams during new process implementation.

Process Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution

• Identify root causes of process deviations, equipment issues, and quality defects using structured problem-solving methods (e.g., 5 Why, Fishbone, DOE, 8D).
• Support cross functional investigations related to non-conformances and production interruptions.
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent issue recurrence.
• Provide hands-on support on the plant floor, especially during start-up andprocess changes.

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, improve yield, and strengthen process stability.
• Analyze production data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify improvement opportunities.
• Conduct process capability studies and optimize critical process parameters to meet quality and performance targets.
• Support scale-up activities for new products and implementation of process changes from R&D to manufacturing.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Analyze quality trends and implement actions to reduce process variation and defects.
• Ensure products meet specifications through effective in-process monitoring and controls.
• manufacturing processes are robust, repeatable, and compliant with quality and safety requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Production, Process, Quality, Maintenance teams to resolve technical and operational issues.
• Act as a technical liaison between R&D and plant operations to ensure smooth technology transfer and improvement activities.
• Communicate technical findings and recommendations clearly to relevant stakeholders.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze manufacturing and quality data to support problem-solving and continuous improvement efforts.
• Track and report performance metrics such as yield, scrap, downtime, and process stability.
• Prepare clear technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for engineering management.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

Experience

• > 5 years of relevant experience in a chemical, adhesives, coatings, or polymer processing manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot process, equipment, and quality issues, particularly during introduction of new machines, technologies, or process changes in a plant setting.
• Demonstrated experience with R&D-to-manufacturing scale-up, including process trials and the start-up and stabilization of new equipment or technologies.
• Experience with batch and/or continuous chemical processes, with a strong understanding of scale-up and transition from development to full-scale manufacturing operations.

Technical Skills

• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, process parameters, and operating conditions in chemical or polymer production (mixing, extrusion, lamination etc.)
• Experience applying structured problem-solving and root cause analysis methods (e.g., 5-Why, Fishbone, DOE, CAPA).
• Ability to analyze process data and performance metrics to support decision-making and improvements.
• Familiarity with process documentation, SOPs, work instructions, and control plans.
• Knowledge of quality systems and ISO standards is an advantage.

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional and multicultural teams.
• Proactive, adaptable, and able to perform in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.