R&T Pilot Plant Engineer

Hexcel; Decatur (AL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading advanced composites company as an R&T Pilot Plant Engineer, where you'll manage innovative projects and ensure the smooth operation of pilot facilities. This role offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge polymer processes and contribute to the development of high-performance materials used in aerospace and industrial applications. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a culture that values diversity, you will play a key role in optimizing processes and supporting research initiatives. If you're passionate about engineering and innovation, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in industrial polymer processes and equipment.
• Ability to work in a cross-functional team environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage pilot plant activities to support innovation projects.
• Supervise pilot plant technicians and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Industrial Polymer Processes

Mechanical Troubleshooting

Cross-Functional Teamwork

Communication Skills

Leadership

Education

BSc in Chemical Engineering

BSc in Polymer Engineering

BSc in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Industrial Equipment

Job description

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in manufacturing advanced composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs, and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices, and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Position: R&T Pilot Plant Engineer

Location: Decatur, AL, USA

Responsibilities:

1. Manage, prioritize, and direct pilot plant activities to support innovation projects.
2. Ensure R&T Pilot facilities are well maintained, and all materials are ready for trials. Ensure all trial work complies with safety requirements.
3. Supervise the pilot plant technicians.
4. Develop and implement a preventative maintenance program for pilot assets and troubleshoot mechanical issues.
5. Execute capital improvements to R&T facilities.
6. Maintain documentation for trials, equipment, and procedures.
7. Assist with R&T research projects as needed, including trial coverage in pilot facilities and at plant scale.
8. Support process development, process optimization, and product application development for new PAN precursor fibers.

Qualifications:

1. BSc in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field, with at least 5 years of experience with industrial polymer processes and equipment. Experience with PAN, fiber spinning, industrial polymerization units, or carbon fiber is preferred.
2. Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment. Experience in R&D is a plus.
3. Willingness to operate machinery for upgrades, troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration.
4. Understanding of safety procedures for running industrial scale equipment in PSM areas.
5. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to resolve conflicts and seek optimal outcomes.
6. Leadership or coaching experience is desirable.

Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, nationals, lawful permanent residents, or persons with appropriate immigration status.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

Learn more about working at Hexcel!

About Us

Hexcel Corporation (NYSE: HXL) is a leading advanced composites company with approximately 5,500 employees worldwide and 2023 revenues of $1.789 billion. We develop, manufacture, and market lightweight, high-performance structural materials used in aerospace, space, defense, and industrial applications.

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