Sr Research Engineer Polymer Materials
Job Location:
Fontana, CA - USA
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
Job Summary
James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions with a portfolio that includes fiber cement fiber gypsum composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie TimberTech AZEK Exteriors Versatex fermacell and StruXure.
With over 8000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago we boast 31 operating sites 6 recycling facilities and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce were united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All through sustainable innovation a Zero Harm culture and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
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This position can be based at our Wilmington OH or Fontana CA plant
The Senior Research Engineer / Scientist Polymer Materials will support the development optimization and deployment of PVC material technologies for highperformance durable building products. This role requires deep fundamentals in polymer science and polymer engineering with emphasis on PVC chemistry physics processing and structurepropertyprocess relationships bridging laboratory research and manufacturing implementation.
Key Responsibilities
Polymer Formulation & Materials Development
Developoptimize and evaluate PVC formulations including base resins stabilizer systems lubricants impact modifiers process aids fillers and pigments. Apply fundamental polymer science and engineering principles (polymer thermodynamics viscoelasticity molecular weight effects phase behavior and degradation mechanisms) to guide formulation design. Demonstrate strong understanding of PVCspecific behavior including fusion/gelation thermal stability shear sensitivity rheology and morphology development. Establish and interpret structurepropertyprocessing relationships to balance durability mechanical performance surface quality and manufacturability. Conduct laboratoryscale compounding extrusion and molding to support new product cost and sustainability AIassistedmaterial characterizations and formulation development.
Process & Manufacturing Support
Support PVC extrusion and compounding processes including formulationdriven troubleshooting of surface defects instability degradation dimensional control and throughput limitations. Apply polymer processing fundamentals (heat transfer shear and elongational flow residence time die swell cooling and orientation effects) to diagnose and resolve manufacturing issues. Partner with manufacturing quality and process engineering teams to scale laboratory formulations to robust highyield production. Support pilotscale and plant trials.
Testing & Characterization
Design and execute experimental plans using thermal mechanical rheological and environmental characterization techniques (DSC TGA DMArheometry weathering impact tensile flexural). Interpret data using firstprinciplesunderstanding ofpolymer behavior and PVC material response. Maintainhigh standardsfor documentation and technical rigor.
Project Management & Technical Communication
Plan and execute technical projects with defined scope and milestones. Communicate complex polymer concepts clearly through written reports and presentations. Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Required Qualifications
PhD in Polymer Science Polymer Engineering Materials Science or Chemical Engineering with 07 years of experience or MS with 310 years of experience.
Strong fundamental knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer engineering. Deep understanding of PVC materials includingstabilizationchemistry fusion behavior degradation mechanisms and extrusion processing.
Experience inAIassistedmaterial characterizations and formulation developmentfor composite materials.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Travel 35%(mainly domestic)
Preferred Qualifications
Handson experience with PVC compounding extrusion or formulation development. Experience supporting highvolume manufacturing or pilotscale operations. Familiarity with building materials and durability requirements.
As of the date of this posting a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $120000 - $135000. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience skills geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.
At James Hardie we recognize that our success depends on our people. Weve worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.
- Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
- Insurance: day-one health coverage medical dental vision life insurance
- Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
- Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
- Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
- Work-Life Balance: parental leave wellness programs
- Purpose. Impact. Community:Sustainability Initiatives James Hardie
- More:Click here to learn more about our benefits
Build a Better Future for All - Apply now!
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James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color gender sex age national origin religion sexual orientation gender identity/expression genetic information veterans status marital status pregnancy disability or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits including but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties responsibilities and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.
Required Experience:
Senior IC
About Company
Discover the world leader in fiber cement products and enhance your home's beauty with trusted durability. Visit us now!
