Global Rubber Materials Director, Formulation Innovation

Cooper Standard; Northville (MI); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Cooper Standard seeks a senior Director of Formulation Development to define and execute the global strategy for sealing and rubber fluid transfer systems. You will lead formulation science, governance across labs and manufacturing, and drive high‑impact programs while aligning with CSOS, WCE, and our strategic priorities.

You will guide advanced rubber and polymer formulations, innovate new materials, protect intellectual property, and ensure successful industrialization with cost and delivery

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical discipline. Master’s or PhD in Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering strongly preferred.
• Typically 12+ years of experience in formulation, materials development, or polymer engineering within a manufacturing environment, preferably automotive.
• Proven experience leading global, cross-functional technical teams and high-complexity programs.
• Deep expertise in rubber chemistry, raw materials, material specifications, and manufacturing processes (mixing, extrusion, molding).
• Strong business acumen, risk management, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Willingness and ability to travel globally to customer and manufacturing locations.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and materials development programs from concept through production launch.
• Ensure designs meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and CS guidelines.
• Drive engineering deliverables on time and within budget.
• Apply DFSS, DVP, PPAP, VA/VE, KT, 8D, and related CS tools.
• Partner with Operations to enable robust product launches.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical discipline

Master’s or PhD in Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Cooper Standard seeks a senior Director of Formulation Development to define and execute the global strategy for sealing and rubber fluid transfer systems. You will lead formulation science, governance across labs and manufacturing, and drive high‑impact programs while aligning with CSOS, WCE, and our strategic priorities.

You will guide advanced rubber and polymer formulations, innovate new materials, protect intellectual property, and ensure successful industrialization with cost and delivery