Technical R&D Director (Plastics/Extrusion exp. req. Paid Relo to WI)

Head of R&D/Technical Director - Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.Location: Elkhorn, WI – up to $20K Relocation Assistance Available!Salary: $150,000 - $170,000 + Annual Performance Bonus + Benefits Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, 401k w/match, Holidays, VacationJob Type: Full-TimeTypical Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM (Flexible)Start Date: ASAPSponsorship is not availableRelocation Assistance is available Head of R&D/Technical Director - (Plastics /Extrusion exp. req.) DescriptionOur client, a well-established manufacturing company, is seeking a Technical R&D Director 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.Head of R&D/Technical Director - (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 environmentHead of R&D/Technical Director - (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