PolyCycle Materials Technology Manager

Polymers Science:  

•    Oversee research focused on PCR grade development 
•    Identifies emerging trends and translates them into product opportunities
•    The candidate will work with procurement and operations to maintain a robust and cost-effective supply chain for all grades.
•    Candidate will monitor PCR resin competitors in mechanical and advanced recycling.  
•    The candidate must have expertise in numerous processing technologies including but not limiting extrusion blow molding, thermoforming and injection molding of polyolefins.  
•    Identify patentable inventions and manage IP as related to PolyCycle
•    Monitor industry patents to stay abreast of new developments in recycling
•    Turn research into commercial new products
•    Collaborate with operations to optimize the manufacturing process
•    Collaborate with sales/business development to maximize value to our customers

Leadership: 

•    Build an R&D team as the business grows to support Polycycle's growth.  This will include recruiting, mentor, and managing the materials staff.
•    Assign research tasks, set project goals, and monitor progress to ensure timely delivery of results.

Essential Job Functions:  

1.    Communicate clearly in English, both verbally and written
2.    Wear appropriate required safety gear
3.    Attend work regularly and reliably
4.    Work flexible hours as scheduled or required for specific role
5.    Provide on-shift training relative to specific functions
6.    Conformance to company performance rules such as work instructions, working standards, policies, etc.
7.    Conformance to behavioral rules, expectations, and company policies.
8.    Analyze shift or plant performance data relative to functional specialty and provide the shift leader or Manager with assessments of opportunity
9.    Facilitate employee adherence to requirements of your departmental specialty
10.    Actively supports and participates in plant quality improvement & cost reduction programs
11.    Demonstrate awareness of and compliance with all pertinent safety policies and procedures 
12.    Maintain a professional, clean, and organized work environment
13.    Participate in work related training programs
14.    Close visual acuity to perform computer tasks, read & develop spreadsheets, read financial data, etc.
15.    Able to travel without assistance as required by specific role
16.    Able to participate in meetings and discussions with peer group and management team, and interact with employees in multiple locations and settings

•    Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
•    Extensive experience in polymer research and development, including hands-on experience with polymer synthesis, characterization techniques, and processing methods.
•    Proven track record of leading research teams and delivering successful product innovations.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex technical challenges.
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams. 

This position will be based in Crawfordsville, Indiana. Successful candidates will be required to transition into position within two weeks of accepting offer Work Schedule: 8-hour days, with occasional after hours work.
PPE: ANSI Z41 approved safety shoes, hearing and eye protection as appropriate for work area, gloves according to work tasks, and other PPE as assigned and required.
Tools and Equipment: Various writing utensils, radios, phone, computer, printers, fax machines, calculators, various computer software required for specific roles.