R&D Pilot Plant Engineer — Advanced Materials & Upgrades

Hexcel Corporation

Tennessee

On-site

USD 95,000 - 135,000

Full time

4 days ago

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Job summary

Hexcel Corporation in Decatur, Alabama seeks an experienced R&D Facilities Engineer to own reliability, modernization, and advancement of our pilot facilities. You will lead capital upgrades, improve equipment performance, and drive technical progress for next-gen carbon fiber technologies from concept to reality.

The role involves coordinating with cross-functional teams, ensuring safety, and delivering trials and process improvements for PAN precursor fibers.

Qualifications

BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineer or related field.
At least 5 years of experience with industrial processes and equipment; polymer processing experience preferred.
Experience supporting capital projects.
Experience guiding upgrades, troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration of machinery.
Understanding of safety procedures for industrial scale equipment (PSM).
Experience leading or coaching a team is desirable.
Experience working in or with R&D is preferred.
Direct experience with PAN, fiber spinning, polymerization units, and/or carbon fiber is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead capital improvements to R&D facilities from concept to completion and direct pilot plant activities.
Apply data-driven decision making to identify opportunities and deliver projects.
Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues.
Identify and execute pilot line improvement opportunities including process improvements and non-capital projects.
Maintain documentation for trials, equipment, and procedures.
Lead R&D projects; trials may be in pilot facilities or at plant scale.
Support process development, optimization, and product application development for PAN precursor fibers.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to share learnings from operations and R&D testing.
Ensure safety requirements are followed; trials may require lifting up to 25 lbs and bending.