Development Engineer

This position is responsible for the planning, direction, and coordination for the development of innovative non-woven products for a broad range of applications. Specific areas of focus will include wet-laid non-wovens formed from engineering fibers and bonding systems. Products will be developed starting from laboratory hand sheets to in-house pilot trials to production scale qualification runs. Development work will concentrate on innovative solutions to market needs, with the accompanying goal of establishing a strong intellectual property base. Ancillary programs related to product enhancements, cost reductions, etc. will be required at times.

1. Maintain a “Safety First” attitude in the performance of all tasks.
2. Must be knowledgeable in the effective use of Lean Continuous Improvement (LCI) tools and concepts to assist in process improvements, both within Lydall, and externally at our customers/suppliers. Serve as an active participant in LCI programs.
3. Work with Marketing and Operations to develop products to meet customer requirements for new business opportunities.
4. Use project management tools when appropriate.
5. Coordinate and lead production trials of new and modified products. Supervise Pilot scale trials when appropriate.
6. Draft internal and customer specs for developed products.
7. Assist Quality Assurance in evaluating and resolving unusual, non-routine customer complaints.
8. Provide technical assistance to Manufacturing concerning unusual, non-routine situations.
9. Work with Purchasing and Manufacturing in the evaluation of new sources of raw materials, product improvements and/or cost reductions.
10. Prepare and distribute appropriate reports to document technical findings, following ISO requirements.
11. Evaluate competitive products as needed.
12. Assist in the preparation of patent applications for new technologies.
13. Supervise, train, evaluate, develop and coach technical staff. This includes conducting annual performance appraisals for all direct reports.
14. Coordination of time and attendance system / labor reporting. Daily approval of time and attendance punches including pay codes.
Other:
• Must adhere to all company and location policies and safety rules
• Must be able to work extended hours when required
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• BS in Paper Science or Chemical Engineering preferred, chemical engineering or material science considered.
• Five to seven years of industrial experience.
• Normal travel requirements should not exceed 20 percent.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams within the facility as well as throughout the company
• Ability to organize, manage, and control workflow
• Ability to meet deadlines despite conflicting priorities
• Proficiency with a variety of software applications, such as Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Office
• Strong verbal, written, analytical, presentation and interpersonal skills
• Supervisory skills to manage at least one technician.