Senior R&D Manager - Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.

Senior R&D Manager - Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.
Location: outside of Elkhorn, WI 
Salary: $125,000 - $150,000 + Annual Performance Bonus + Benefits  
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, 401(k) w/match, Holidays, Vacation
Job Type: Full-Time
Typical Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM (Flexible)
Start Date: ASAP
Sponsorship is not available
Relocation Assistance is available 

Senior R&D Manager (Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.) Description

Our client, a well-established manufacturing company, is seeking a Senior R&D Manager to lead product innovation and technical development efforts. With an average employee tenure exceeding 10 years, the organization offers a stable, collaborative environment where technical expertise is valued and long-term careers are built. This hands-on, individual contributor role focuses on new product development, process optimization, and technical feasibility, allowing you to make a direct impact without managing a team. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in laminating, coatings, and specialty material processing, with a proven ability to move concepts from lab validation to full-scale production. You will play a pivotal role in developing high-performance materials for demanding industrial applications where durability, precision, and reliability are essential. This opportunity offers autonomy and meaningful influence within a long-standing organization committed to product excellence and continuous improvement.

Senior R&D Manager (Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.) Responsibilities

•    Lead new product development from feasibility assessment through pilot and production scale
•    Conduct technical evaluations and trials for new product initiatives
•    Collaborate with suppliers to assess material capabilities and specifications
•    Develop, audit, and refine process specifications to ensure consistent and reliable production
•    Redesign existing products to reduce cost, improve performance, or enhance customer satisfaction
•    Participate in cross-functional meetings with Production, Materials, Quality, and Sales 
•    Manage trial requests, technical validations, and data documentation
•    Support chemical and hazardous material management
•    Assist in planning and evaluating departmental budgets, project goals, and technical objectives
•    Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant R&D lab environment

Senior R&D Manager (Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.)  Qualifications

•    5+ years in a technical role within plastics manufacturing required  
•    Hands-on experience with laminating processes (solvent-based, solventless, and/or water-based coatings) required 
•    Experience with extrusion or slitting equipment required 
•    Proficiency with MS Office required