Polymer Scientist

Summary Description: 

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes designed for breathable membrane and other applications. The position requires a detailed technical understanding of porous materials, characterization techniques, structure-property relationships, and process optimization as related to ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes.
• Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies.
• Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products
• Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities
• Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods
• Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required
• Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings
• Files provisional patents on new developments
• Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes.
• Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity.
• Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE’s and other work area standards
• Represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers. 
• Adopt ENTEK culture and core values.

Supervisory Duties:

None

Required Skills/Abilities:

Critical knowledge

• Computer savvy
• Superb English written and verbal skills
• Excellent presentation skills

Critical experience

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment and with cross-functional professionals
• High drive for results and advanced problem-solving skills
• Finds innovative solutions to problems
• Strong background in porous materials and polymer science

Critical technical, professional, and personal capabilities

• Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and experiments
• Be the technical face of the company in front of key customer(s)
• Expertise level in porous materials and polymer science
• Strong work ethic with a desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Education and Experience:

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering
• >3 years of experience, including post-doctoral fellowship, if any.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Prior experience in UHMWPE gel processing, blown film technology, characterization of porous materials, experimental design, and Lean principles is highly desired.
• Prior experience in research and development of breathable membranes or filtration membranes.
• Background in basic statistics, experimental design, and Minitab software is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

The following physical activities are necessary to perform the essential functions of this job.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk or hear. 
• The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, or sit for extended lengths of time. 
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40      pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.