Research & Development Engineer

Forbo Management; Huntersville (NC); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Forbo Movement Systems in Huntersville, NC seeks a Research & Development Engineer to drive innovations in belt technologies and manufacturing processes. You will collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Sales to push material science forward and ensure product excellence.

The role requires a BS/BA in science or engineering (MS preferred), experience with polymers, PVC formulations, and coatings, and strong analytical and root-cause skills for quality assurance and testing.

Qualifications

• BS or BA in Science or Engineering; MS preferred.
• Experience with polymers, plastics, formulation chemistry, textiles, material sciences.
• Ability to perform root cause analysis for problem solving and testing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word; SAP preferred.
• PVC formulation experience; familiar with plastics/coatings processing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific research to develop or improve products and processes.
• Develop and maintain technical specifications for raw materials.
• Stay updated on scientific advancements and industry trends.
• Engage raw material suppliers to meet specifications.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency.
• Assist in production trials and testing; provide technical assistance to cross-functional teams.
• Analyze returned goods and document test procedures and results.
• Perform incoming material testing and communicate QC results to manufacturing.

Skills

Root cause analysis

Polymers

Plastics

Formulation chemistry

Textiles

Material sciences

Excel

Word

SAP

PVC formulation

Coatings processing

Computer literacy

Education

BS or BA in Science or Engineering

MS preferred

Tools

SAP

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Research & Development Engineer

Regular Full-Time Huntersville, NC- CMC, Huntersville, NC, US

About Company:

About us

Since 1919, we at Forbo Movement Systems have been the specialists for high-quality conveyor and processing belts, versatile plastic modular belts, homogeneous conveyor belts, efficient power transmission belts and precise timing and flat belts. Our innovative solutions for production, material flow and logistics contribute significantly to the competitiveness of our customers. In addition to our focus on quality and innovation, we consistently focus on sustainability. Through continuous improvements, we also support the sustainability efforts of our customers.

About the Role:

Contribute to Product and Process Innovations. Conduct cutting-edge research and development activities to improve existing products and develop new products. Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and product quality. Provide technical support to Manufacturing, Fabrication, SCM, and Sales teams. Support the ISO 9001 Quality Management System. Support investigation and processing of customer complaints. Ensuring continuous improvement and regulatory compliance is maintained. Effectively perform testing to determine the chemical, physical, mechanical, and functional properties of raw and/or finished materials for quality assurance.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS or BA in Science or Engineering discipline, MS preferred 1-3 years
• Training and/or experience with polymers, plastics, formulation chemistry, textiles, material sciences
• Able to complete root cause analysis for problem solving Chemical/Material testing General computer literacy.
• Microsoft Excel and Word SAP preferred, but not required
• PVC formulation experience preferred
• Familiar with plastics or coatings processing desirable. Strong knowledge of computer applications.

Responsibilities:

• Conducting scientific research to develop innovative products, technologies, or processes and/or improve existing products in conjunction with Sales and Business Development, Develop and maintain technical specifications for raw material used in the manufacturing of belting products.
• Stay updated with the latest scientific advancements and industry trends to identify new opportunities for innovation
• Engage raw material suppliers to ensure that materials meet technical specifications.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and product quality.
• Assist in production trials and subsequent testing and reporting. Provide technical assistance to Business Development, Operations, Quality, Sales and SCM. Analyzing returned goods to ensure they are processed in a timely manner.
• Communicating results back to leadership. Support in the processing of claims Develop test procedures for raw materials and finished goods and document standard procedures for application.
• Accurately perform incoming raw material quality checks requiring chemical and physical testing, including necessary sampling and sample preparation. - Example of tests including but not limited to the following: viscosity, percent solids, heat stability, density, melting or softening point, content of various components in coatings, consistency of color and dispersion, etc. - Raw materials include: PVC paste

, PVC dry blend, and any components used to produce the preceding.

• Accurately perform in-process testing of semi-finished goods to determine viscosity, melt flow index, shore hardness, moisture content Maintain proper records of test and inspection results including computer records. Provide real-time feedback of QC results to manufacturing.
• Effectively communicate and cooperate with supervisors and co-workers to achieve company goals and objectives.

Skills:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Work closely with personnel from other departments

Objective / Analytical / Problem Solving mentality

Somewhat flexible hours for Production Trial work

Safely work with solvents and other materials/chemicals