Product Development Engineer

About the role

This role involves technology development for all aspects of coated paper design for both packaging and specialties printing/converting businesses. The successful candidate will work as part of a team on developing new technology and products to create more environmentally friendly, better performing, and profitable products. This position requires strong collaboration with marketing, procurement, and manufacturing functions, as well as co-development with customer and supplier partners.

Responsibilities

• Handle all technical aspects of material selection, test development, product testing, and design to ensure product offerings meet market and customer expectations.
• Lead functional coating and application development, including binders, pigments, process additives, and assessment of new supplier offerings.
• Develop new designs incorporating materials from renewable resources to create environmentally advantaged products.
• Provide support and technical leadership for strategic projects driven by business needs.
• Coordinate and execute complex internal and external pilot plant and manufacturing trials.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional teams for cost reduction and product development initiatives.

Requirements

• PhD, Master’s, or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Pulp and Paper Science.
• 5-10 years of industrial experience in product development.
• Experience in coated paperboard, flexible packaging paper, and barrier technology development is a plus.
• Knowledge and application of polymer chemistry is preferred or willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment, with a proven ability to complete assignments in a timely manner.
• Solid understanding of paper-making, coating chemistry, and process from both practical and fundamental chemical aspects.
• Strong knowledge of papermaking equipment and the interaction between materials and process.
• Must have authorization to work in the United States.

Reports to the Sustainable Packaging Group Manager at the Sappi NA Technology Center in Westbrook, Maine.