Research Engineer, Polyurethane Systems

Do you want to be part of a team that aspires to improve the quality of life for others? Are you interested in efficient manufacturing processes that promote sustainability? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment in a job well done? At Carpenter Co., we challenge our employees to learn from and inspire one another – all levels of the company collaborate, communicate and constantly improve to achieve shared success. If that sounds like an environment in which you will thrive, Carpenter Co. could be a great fit for you!Carpenter Co. has an opening for a Research Engineer at our Reinhart Technical Center in Richmond, Virginia. This position is responsible for supporting the technical functions of the Polyurethane Systems Sales organization through laboratory efforts and interactions with the sales team and customers.Carpenter Co. employees are committed to working hard to ensure production goals are met while maintaining operations excellence. As the successful candidate, you will be expected to create formulated polyurethane systems for rigid foam, flexible molded foam, prepolymer, and/or elastomer end-use applications.Your additional responsibilities as Research Engineer will include:Plans and executes experimental or testing programs with minimal supervisory guidance.Handles projects or assignments mostly independently. Gives operational direction to assistant scientists and technicians. Interprets results and makes recommendations consistent with and supporting technology goals.Executes technical aspects of assigned projects with a minimum of supervision. Performs experiments according to general guidelines with modification permitted depending upon the application. Provides appropriate interpretation of results within defined time constraints. Has successfully completed assignments for larger, more complex projects; in these cases, generally works closely with more experienced personnel. Understands current product /processes. Supports new business opportunities through production trials at customer sites.Demonstrates ability to apply fundamental principles of individual discipline to the problems assigned. Responsible for defining and implementing new test procedures, including the use of complex instrumentation.Formulates and supports manufacturing for production of polyurethane systems at internal Chemical Blending sites. Works with other chemists, process engineers and technicians to operate large-scale equipment for product scale-up testing.Prepares reports and publications that are concise, clearly understood, contain appropriate conclusions and recommendations. Where applicable, routinely makes presentations to customers or multi-functional work teams describing on-going project work.Proposes better and more efficient ways of working.Develops an advanced understanding of all equipment and processes involved in area of responsibility and utilizes this knowledge to solve problems and assist the team.Skills/ RequirementsBachelor's degree in Engineering or other related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. degree in Engineering is required (without experience).3+ years of technical industry experience in polymer or material science discipline required without advanced degree.Formulation knowledge of polyurethane foams and polyurethane elastomers is preferred.Experience formulating integral skin foam, technical foam, and automotive foamsMechanical aptitude with good verbal/written communication skillsApplication of basic scientific principlesLaboratory experienceExperience with word processing and spreadsheetsExperience generating presentationsUnderstanding of engineering principlesExcellent Comprehensive Benefit PlanWe also have 401K, Profit Sharing and a great Benefit Package including Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and paid time off (Vacation and Holidays).Important NotesCarpenter Co. is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or other legally protected characteristic.Carpenter Co. conducts pre-employment drug testing on all applicants that receive and accept a written offer of employment.QualificationsBEHAVIOURSDetail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done wellFunctional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subjectLeader: Inspires teammates to follow themMOTIVATIONSGrowth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibilityGoal Completion: Inspired to perform well by the completion of tasksAbility to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organizationEDUCATIONBachelors or betterSKILLSMicrosoft Word - IntermediateMicrosoft Excel - IntermediateEXPERIENCE3 years: Formulation knowledge of polyurethane foams and polyurethane elastomers3 years: Technical industry experience in polymer or material science Job SummaryRequisition Number: RESEA001395Job Category: Research and DevelopmentSchedule: Full-Time