New Product Dev. Engineer

POSITION DESCRIPTIONJob Title:New Product Development EngineerDepartment: Press New Product DevelopmentJob Type:Full TimeJob Status:Salary ExemptGeneral Scope of Responsibilities: Lead and execute new product development initiatives through research experimentation and collaboration to deliver innovative solutions that meet AstenJohnson product principles and customer needs. This role combines material science product development and process integration to bring new products from concept through Responsibilities:Manage assigned product development and research projects from concept through commercializationPlan and conduct experiments to develop polymeric materials blends and product solutionsProduce and evaluate product samples using pilot and manufacturing equipmentEnsure projects meet defined specifications milestones and timelinesCollaborate with manufacturing and process engineers to ensure smooth product scale-up and commercializationDevelop and implement new test methods and procedures; integrate into standard quality systemsAnalyze competitive materials published data and industry trends to drive innovationGenerate technical data reports and customer-facing documentationEnsure cost tracking and technical documentation are accurate and maintainedProvide technical support to internal teams and field personnel including trial supportCollaborate with external partners including suppliers universities and testing labsMonitor emerging technologies and contribute to digital manufacturing and innovation strategiesPromote a culture of innovation continuous improvement and change readinessTranslate customer and paper machine requirements into viable product designsBuild technical knowledge and capabilities in materials processing and product performanceSupport cross-functional alignment between R&D marketing and manufacturingContribute to a collaborative respectful and inclusive work environmentReporting Relationships:Direct: Reports to Press Global Innovation LeaderCoordination: Works closely with Manufacturing Marketing CIT and customers to achieve goalsQualifications & Skills:Papermaking technology knowledge or industry experience highly preferredStrong mechanical and technical aptitude with experience in equipment and process prototyping and complex problem-solvingConsistent project management discipline with a structured milestone-driven approach effective task sequencing and consistent achievement of short- and long-term level of personal accountability with the ability to work independently and drive projects to completionPrevious working experience in Textile or PMC desiredProficiency in 2D and 3D CAD for drafting and modelingStrong knowledge of polymer materials and manufacturing processes i.e. polymer extrusion desirableLean and Six Sigma certification or experience is an assetKnowledge and experience with Industry 4.0 and digital transformation in manufacturing is an assetEffective collaboration and communication skills across functionsExperience with experimental design data analysis and statistical toolsAbility to analyze complex technical challenges and develop practical engineering solutionsFamiliarity with project management tools (e.g. MS Project) and Stage Gate processesContinuous improvement mindset with a proactive and solution-oriented approachEducation/Certifications:Bachelors degree in engineering Polymer Science Textile or related fieldPhysical Requirements:Ability to sit/stand at a desk and in meetings as neededWalking through the manufacturing facility and office areaAbility to wear safety shoes safety glasses gloves and earplugs while in manufacturing areaAbility to lift 10-20lbsNote: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the above position and is not exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may evolve over time to meet organizational needs.