North America Head of Non-Basic R&D & Innovation

RHI Magnesita N.V.; York (York County); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Training & development

Inclusive work environment

Job summary

RHI Magnesita is seeking a strategic leader to serve as Head of Non-Basic R&D for North America, based in York, PA. You will direct the research, development, and innovation roadmap for non-basic refractory products, partnering with Operations, Supply Chain, and Global R&D to drive growth and manufacturing excellence.

You will lead a team of Research Engineers and a Materials Scientist, shape technology roadmaps, oversee technology transfer, and advance product development from concept through

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 10+ years in refractory products, advanced ceramics, industrial materials, or related manufacturing.
• 2-3 years of leadership experience managing technical professionals and R&D teams.
• Experience leading product development, technology management, and innovation initiatives from concept through commercialization.
• Strong understanding of refractory materials, raw materials, processing technologies, and material characterization.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the North American Non-Basic R&D organization, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Drive development and execution of R&D strategies, product roadmaps, and innovation initiatives aligned with regional/global objectives.
• Serve as a gatekeeper in project approvals, ensuring investments deliver business value.
• Guide new product development, process improvement, and technology advancement for Non-Basic portfolio.
• Lead technology transfer across manufacturing sites to support network optimization and continuity.
• Partner with Operations, Manufacturing Excellence, Supply Chain, and Plant Leadership to support capacity expansion and cost competitiveness.
• Identify opportunities to standardize technologies and leverage shared capabilities across sites.
• Monitor project performance: timelines, quality, costs, and business impact.
• Collaborate with global stakeholders to accelerate innovation and commercialization.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Influence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science or related field

Job description

RHI Magnesita is seeking a strategic leader to serve as Head of Non-Basic R&D for North America, based in York, PA. You will direct the research, development, and innovation roadmap for non-basic refractory products, partnering with Operations, Supply Chain, and Global R&D to drive growth and manufacturing excellence.

You will lead a team of Research Engineers and a Materials Scientist, shape technology roadmaps, oversee technology transfer, and advance product development from concept through