Technical Process Manager – Polymers & Process Optimization

Tarkett; Solon (IA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Career growth and stability

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Tarkett seeks a Technical Process Manager with a chemical engineering foundation to translate material and process interactions into stable manufacturing outcomes. You will lead polymer formulations, production processes, and cross-functional implementation to improve quality, consistency, and performance.

The role emphasizes rigorous analysis, evidence-based conclusions, and disciplined problem-solving within an autonomous production-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related engineering discipline.
• 7+ years in Engineering, R&D, Technical Program Management, Product Development, or Project Management.
• Experience with structured problem-solving or continuous improvement methodologies in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with polymer formulations, plastics processing, or related materials systems preferred.
• Familiarity with manufacturing equipment such as extruders, calendars, or presses.
• Strong communication skills; ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, actionable guidance for cross-functional audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple technical projects involving polymer-based products and manufacturing processes from initiation through completion.
• Apply critical evaluation to material–process interactions—challenging assumptions and distinguishing signal from noise to identify true performance levers.
• Develop project plans, monitor progress, and proactively manage risks and dependencies.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies (Six Sigma, DMAIC, root cause analysis) to resolve technical issues; go beyond surface symptoms to identify systemic causes.
• Design, plan, and oversee production trials; critically assess data quality and integrity before translating findings into recommendations.
• Drive process control, standardization, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure technical requirements align with customer, regulatory, and business objectives.
• Coordinate prototype development, testing, validation, and launch activities.
• Collaborate across R&D, manufacturing, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to implement technical solutions.
• Provide rigorous technical review of assumptions, proposed changes, and data interpretations—pushing back where the evidence does not support the conclusion.

Skills

Critical thinking

Root cause analysis

Technical leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering

Tools

Six Sigma certification

Job description

Tarkett seeks a Technical Process Manager with a chemical engineering foundation to translate material and process interactions into stable manufacturing outcomes. You will lead polymer formulations, production processes, and cross-functional implementation to improve quality, consistency, and performance.

The role emphasizes rigorous analysis, evidence-based conclusions, and disciplined problem-solving within an autonomous production-focused environment.