Lead Product Scientist

Kimberly-Clark Corporation; Neenah (WI); On-site; USD 87,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

Kimberly-Clark Neenah, WI seeks a Lead Product Scientist to drive consumer-focused product development from concept through commercialization. You will collaborate across Materials, Process, Manufacturing, and Marketing to shape strategies and ensure designs meet business goals.

The role emphasizes deep product expertise, cross-functional leadership, safety compliance, and mentorship of junior team members in a fast-paced R&E environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university.
• 3+ years of industry experience in research or engineering, product/material development, project management roles or other related experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and across functional boundaries to complete projects within required timeframes.
• Exceptional skills effectively communicating/translating complex technical concepts to others.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate within project teams to understand business innovation plans and leverage to lead development from a consumer and product design standpoint to meet business and project objectives.
• Lead product development efforts for single or multiple projects from initial scoping and definition of success criteria through commercialization.
• Develop and lead product qualification plans in partnership with Materials, Process, Manufacturing, and Supply teams.
• Lead the interaction with the Marketing team to ensure product design meets concept and aligns with strategy.
• Develop and leverage deep product expertise and leverage knowledge cross-functionally to field questions for LCM, DtV, competitive claims, etc.
• Ensure development and execution of product specifications and quality plans appropriate for phase of project.
• Facilitate discussions with marketing and the brand design team regarding performance attributes, aesthetics, claims and benefits visualizations to bring innovations to life.
• Protect and defend Kimberly-Clark proprietary product and technology through the appropriate use of patents and trade secrets.
• Provides mentorship to junior members of the product development team.
• Communicate and document project plans and results to key customers.
• Develop knowledge and skills to be recognized as an effective implementer of research principles, scientific analysis, and project management.
• Ensure all work complies with corporate safety, regulatory, product safety and sustainability requirements.

Skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Lead Product Scientist Job Description

You were made to create Better Care for a Better World: exploring uncharted questions, engineering innovative solutions, advancing scientific understanding, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. You want to be part ofa performance culture dedicated to solving real-world problems with purpose and precision. You want to work in an environment that promotes sustainability, inclusion, wellbeing, and career development. In this role, you’ll help us shape the future and improve lives for billions of people around the world. It starts with YOU.

About You

In one of our R&E roles, you’ll focus on winning with consumers and the market, while putting safety, mutual respect, and human dignity at the center.

Job responsibilities include:

• Collaborate within project teams to understand business innovation plans and leverage to lead development from a consumer and product design standpoint to meet business and project objectives.
• Lead product development efforts for single or multiple projects from initial scoping and definition of success criteria through commercialization.
• Develop and lead product qualification plans in partnership with Materials, Process, Manufacturing, and Supply teams.
• Lead the interaction with the Marketing team to ensure product design meets concept and aligns with strategy.
• Develop and leverage deep product expertise and leverage knowledge cross-functionally to field questions for LCM, DtV, competitive claims, etc.
• Ensure development and execution of product specifications and quality plans appropriate for phase of project.
• Facilitate discussions with marketing and the brand design team regarding performance attributes, aesthetics, claims and benefits visualizations to bring innovations to life.
• Protect and defend Kimberly-Clark proprietary product and technology through the appropriate use of patents and trade secrets.
• Provides mentorship to junior members of the product development team.
• Communicate and document project plans and results to key customers.
• Develop knowledge and skills to be recognized as an effective implementer of research principles, scientific analysis, and project management.
• Ensure all work complies with corporate safety, regulatory, product safety and sustainability requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university.
• 3+ years of industry experience in research or engineering, product/material development, project management roles or other related experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and across functional boundaries to complete projects within required timeframes.
• Exceptional skills effectively communicating/translating complex technical concepts to others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or science related field.
• Experience in product development and launch of consumer-packaged goods (CPGs).
• Experience leading both consumer and technical research studies.
• Experience leading product design changes.
• Work experience across a range of Research & Engineering disciplines.
• International experience in a global organization.

Total Benefits

We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we're committed to providing them with the resources they need to be successful. If you're looking for a rewarding career with a company that cares about its employees, then Kimberly-Clark is the place for you. Here are just a few of the benefits you’d enjoy working in this role for Kimberly-Clark. For a complete overview, see www.mykcbenefits.com

Flex That Works at Kimberly-Clark

We believe great work happens when people come together with purpose. That’s why we offer a flexible work model that blends remote work with intentional in-person collaboration — helping you connect, grow, and innovate while maintaining the balance you value.

Employment is subject to verification of local policies.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification.

Statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required for this position.

Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests which may include drug screening, background check, and DMV check.

Veterans and members of the Reserve and Guard are highly encouraged to apply.

This role is available for local candidates already authorized to work in the role’s country only.

Kimberly-Clark will not provide relocation support for this role.

#LI-Hybrid Grade 10: Grade level and / or compensation may vary based on location/country Salary Range: 87,260 – 107,780 USD

At Kimberly-Clark, pay is just one aspect of our total rewards package, which also includes a variety of benefits and opportunities to achieve, thrive and grow.

Along with base pay, this position offers eligibility for a target bonus and a comprehensive benefits suite, including our 401(k) and Profit Sharing plan.

The anticipated base pay range for this role is provided above for a fully qualified hire.

Actual pay will depend on several factors, such as location, role, skills, performance, and experience.

Please note that the stated pay range applies to US locations only.

Primary Location Neenah - West R&E Office Additional Locations Worker Type Employee Worker Sub-Type Regular Time Type Full time

Fueled by ingenuity, creativity, and an understanding of people's most essential needs, we're working to find new ways to make a positive impact on the world we share.

Kimberly-Clark and its trusted brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, GoodNites, Intimus, Neve, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries by helping individuals experience more of what's important to them. We use sustainable practices that support a healthy planet, build stronger communities, and ensure our business thrives for decades to come.

To learn more about the company's 150-year history of innovation, visit kimberly-clark.com.

We are a committed equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law.