Director of Research and Development

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:The Director of Research and Development leads strategic innovation for the company by identifying emerging trends with new product offerings, developing recipes, and taking them to full-scale production. This role is responsible for effectively developing new products while improving upon existing ones to drive growth. This position provides high-level leadership for the R&D team, ensuring the expansion of technical research and product performance possibilities across all categories.CORE & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:TASKS:• Provide leadership for the R&D team by effectively coaching, mentoring, and developing a comprehensive team with progressive year-over-year performance• Continuously identify the "next big thing" to advance the company's product line and drive technical research• Drive the expansion of product performance possibilities within existing product categories• Identify new materials and processes that can transform into new product concepts or improvements to existing products• Monitor and evaluate industry, business, and technology trends to organize them into strategic opportunities• Formulate, direct, and coordinate all research and development programs by introducing new products and processes into the overall company strategy• Make recommendations for the improvement and cost reduction of existing products while managing development projects from concept through commercialization• Plan, carry out, and supervise process trials in laboratories, pilot plants, or on the processing floor• Generate data to substantiate claims regarding the safety and efficacy of new products while overseeing technical investigations and formulation improvements• Stay abreast of all emerging trends, up-to-date scientific research, and technological advances to maintain a competitive advantage• Engage with key suppliers to deepen relationships and identify new innovation opportunities• Other duties as assignedQUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:Must possess at least 10+ years of progressive experience in developing technically innovative products and associated processes, with at least 5 years in an effective leadership role. Possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related science discipline is required (master’s preferred). Must have very strong quantitative and analytical skills. Must be a team player, able to work independently with minimal supervision under tight deadlines. Excellent verbal and written communication and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to learn new concepts and procedures quickly. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite applications (Excel, Word, Access) is required. Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g. use of protective gear). Driving is a requirement for this position; therefore, must have the ability to travel domestically via operating a motor vehicle and maintain a valid driver license and driving record which is acceptable to our insurance provider. Must have a vehicle in good working condition and ensure it meets all safety, insurance, and legal requirements. The ability to travel by plane and/or overnight travel may also be required.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to communicate orally in a clear, concise, and effective manner with customers, company representatives, and the public in various settings. Ability to use a telephone for communication and maintain regular, predictable, and punctual attendance at the facility or other designated location(s). Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and use office equipment such as a personal computer, copier, and facsimile machines. Sit, stand, and/or walk for extended time periods. Hearing and vision required to be within normal ranges, including the ability to accurately distinguish color variation. Read at, above, and below shoulder height and occasionally stoop, kneel, or crouch. Sufficient manual dexterity required to operate equipment. Must be able to carry, push, pull, reach, and lift up to 50 lbs. with assistance routinely. Ability to climb ladders/extension ladders routinely and traverse different roof levels while adhering to fall protection requirements as necessary. Must tolerate various and changing weather and have a normal range of tolerance to industrial/construction and lab chemicals and solvents. Must have the ability to travel by plane, operate a motor vehicle, and maintain an acceptable motor vehicle driving record. Ability to occasionally work evenings, weekends, and overnight travel required.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:The Garland Company, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, protected veteran status, marital status, gender identity or expression, transgender status, citizenship, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic under applicable law.The Garland Company, Inc. is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to, among others, individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. If you need an accommodation because of a disability to search and apply for a career opportunity with The Company, please send an e-mail to hr@garlandind.com to let us know the nature of your accommodation request and your contact information.Salary: The anticipated base salary range for this role is starting at $70,000, with a salary ceiling that is flexible with the final offer determined by the candidate’s unique combination of skills andexperience.