Senior Materials Development Engineer

About the role

The Sr. Materials Development Engineer fulfills a key technical leadership role in the management and execution of material-related research and development projects by championing efforts to develop new enhanced cable and connectivity product materials.

Responsibilities

• Undertake new formulation ideation and design activities aimed at developing materials suitable for use in cables and connectivity produced at our manufacturing sites globally.
• Lead material development projects coordinating required multi-site activities from supplier engagement to formulation test, through to certification and release.
• Evaluate suitability of commercially available materials for use in our global product portfolio.
• Support/lead cable and connectivity new product development projects.
• Support Supply Chain by identifying and delivering material cost savings opportunities.
• Coordinate and witness external fire test activities, analyze/trend relevant test data and understand related fire legislation.
• Support the needs of internal and external customers for materials compliance, third-party testing, certifications and material characterization.
• Reduce supply chain risk by providing supplier competition, resolving obsolete materials, and mitigating price increases.
• Conduct industry studies and competitive analyses to ensure Leviton Network Solution products remain at a competitive level.
• Establish and maintain supplier relationships, keep up to date on material trends and research novel materials for future cable and connectivity applications.
• Assist in carbon footprint calculations, Life Cycle Assessments, Environmental Product Declarations and sustainability projects.
• Prepare periodic project and activity reports indicating progress of projects relative to plan.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to management on projects and R&D efforts as assigned.
• Actively participate in local, national and international working groups/standard committees to help influence improvements within the industry.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Chemistry or Materials Science required.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• Chemical, Polymer, Plastics or Material or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience.
• Experience leading/managing technical projects.
• Wire and cable industry experience a plus.

Skills - Technical

• Strong knowledge of polymer and plastic materials, including fundamental chemistry, analysis, processing and performance.
• Solid experience in material formulation, test and measurement methodologies.
• Experience with plastic extrusion processes, analysis tools and process characterization using industry models or statistical methods.
• Experience of relevant industry standards, test methods and best practices, including fire tests.
• Solid experience in statistical principles, product development processes, verification, and validation techniques.
• Capable of researching and developing new technologies, guidelines, and procedures.

Skills - Behavioral

• Communication - Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with coworkers, along with internal and external customers and key stakeholders.
• Problem-Solver - Strong problem-solving skills to identify issues and develop effective solutions.
• Teamwork - Ability to work well in a team environment that fosters collaboration and cooperation.
• Creativity - Innovative in development of new ideas and approaches for engineering challenges.
• Attention to Detail - Ensure accuracy in work product, documentation, and processes to maintain high standards.
• Analytical Skills - Analyze data to make informed decisions.
• Critical Thinking - Ability to think critically and make informed decisions to optimize performance.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance programs
• 401K plans with employer-matching contributions
• Tuition reimbursement
• PTO
• Paid holidays
• Volunteer time off