Materials Engineer

Responsibilities

• Support daily material decision-making for raw materials and blend silos to ensure manufacturing requirements (specifications, volumes, and availability) are consistently met
• Develop and recommend material blending strategies, including batch deviations, silo assignments, and blend formulations to achieve required molded part performance
• Partner closely with the Materials Processing team to manage the daily blending of recycled and virgin polymers, ensuring optimal use of wide-spec and prime materials
• Evaluate incoming and purchased recycled materials; recommend sourcing decisions based on material properties, performance, and cost
• Drive material cost optimization while maintaining strict adherence to part performance specifications
• Provide technical expertise in PP/PE materials and recycled polymers, supporting both production and ongoing material development initiatives
• Apply data-driven and analytical approaches, including programming or automation tools where applicable, to improve material selection, blending decisions, and process efficiency
• Maintain close collaboration with the in-house polymer laboratory, ensuring effective use of testing capabilities to support rapid, informed decision-making
• Actively support 24/7 production operations, including availability to respond to critical material or process issues as needed
• Continuously identify and implement opportunities for process improvement, material innovation, and increased operational efficiency across materials and manufacturing workflows

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of hands-on experience working with polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE) materials in a manufacturing, R&D, or materials engineering environment
• Experience with recycled or reprocessed PP/PE materials preferred, but not required
• Bachelor’s degree required in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated understanding of plastic–property relationships, particularly for PP and PE systems
• Familiarity with polymer testing and characterization methods (e.g., mechanical testing, thermal analysis, rheology, or similar) preferred
• Exposure to plastic processing methods (e.g., injection molding, extrusion, compounding) is a plus
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret material performance and support formulation or process decisions
• Experience or coursework in programming, data analysis, or databases (e.g., Python, SQL, MATLAB, or similar) strongly preferred
• Interest or experience in machine learning, AI, or data-driven materials development is highly desirable
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, quality, and procurement)
• Self-driven with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a hands-on, fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated teamwork and collaboration skills with ability to lead and influence peers
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and experience working with AI agents
• Must be willing to work in the Lexington, KY area