Polymer Scientist

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC; Lebanon (OR); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading materials science company in Lebanon, Oregon is seeking a Ph.D. level Research Scientist to focus on the development and optimization of microporous membranes. The position requires strong expertise in porous materials and polymer science, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various teams. Responsibilities include solving process problems, conducting production trials, and providing technical support to customers. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic and a desire to innovate in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience is required.
• Over 3 years of experience preferred, including post-doctoral fellowship if applicable.
• Experience in UHMWPE gel processing and blown film technology is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates with engineering and quality teams to solve process problems.
• Documents production trials and implements standard run conditions.
• Develops new membrane concepts and provides technical support.

Skills

Computer savvy

Superb English written and verbal skills

Excellent presentation skills

Exceptional interpersonal skills

Advanced problem-solving skills

Strong background in porous materials and polymer science

Strong work ethic

Education

Ph.D. in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering

Tools

Minitab software

Job description

Summary Description

This position is responsible for research, development, and optimization of microporous membranes designed for breathable membrane and other applications. The position requires a detailed technical understanding of porous materials, characterization techniques, structure-property relationships, and process optimization as related to ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborates with Engineering, Process Technologist, and Quality Manager to solve process problems, minimize variability, and improve current microporous membrane production processes.
• Works with R&D to schedule production trials to improve product performance or create new products based upon extrusion-extraction technologies.
• Documents all production trials and characteristics of the resultant membranes; works with Process Technologist to implement standard run conditions for all new products
• Prepares R&D monthly reports on technical activities
• Works closely with the CTO to develop new membrane concepts or characterization methods
• Interfaces with key customer(s) and provides direct technical service support as required
• Develops technical presentations for use in Quarterly meetings
• Files provisional patents on new developments
• Develops models for transport properties through microporous membranes.
• Investigates new characterization techniques for pore size distribution (e.g., small-angle x-ray scattering, NMR, etc.) and pore interconnectivity.
• Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
• Follows Lean manufacturing utilizing tools such as Kaizans, 5S, RIE’s and other work area standards
• Represents ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with all levels of staff, suppliers, and customers.
• Adopt ENTEK culture and core values.

Requirements

• Computer savvy
• Superb English written and verbal skills
• Excellent presentation skills

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment and with cross-functional professionals
• High drive for results and advanced problem-solving skills
• Finds innovative solutions to problems
• Strong background in porous materials and polymer science

• Lead and drive engineers & production team through high-level projects and experiments
• Be the technical face of the company in front of key customer(s)
• Expertise level in porous materials and polymer science
• Strong work ethic with a desire to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Ph.D. degree or equivalent work experience in polymer science, materials science, or chemical engineering
• >3 years of experience, including post-doctoral fellowship, if any.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Prior experience in UHMWPE gel processing, blown film technology, characterization of porous materials, experimental design, and Lean principles is highly desired.
• Prior experience in research and development of breathable membranes or filtration membranes.
• Background in basic statistics, experimental design, and Minitab software is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, or sit for extended lengths of time.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.