Principal Chemical Engineer - Rubber - ASC Engineered Solutions : Job Details

Principal Chemical Engineer - RubberDepartment: Manufacturing & Distribution - Skilled Jobs Employment Type: Full Time Location: Ashtabula, OH DescriptionASC Engineered Solutions is seeking a Principal Chemical Engineer with expertise in rubber compounding to lead the development of elastomer formulations tailored to meet stringent application, processing, and cost criteria. This role involves conducting and coordinating R&D activities aimed at creating new rubber compounds, improving existing formulations, and ensuring robust process control. The Principal Chemical Engineer will also play a key role in establishing material alternatives and contingencies that align with organizational and market demands. How You Will Help:

• Develop elastomer compound formulations to satisfy internal and OEM requirements.
• Determine and optimize internal mixing or Banbury mixing procedures.
• Interface with R&D Engineering in custom material development efforts.
• Diagnose and resolve molding difficulties relating to compound.
• Support material sourcing efforts to maintain supply chain.
• Assist with supporting global rubber products supply and integration.
• Support of root cause analysis of quality failures and complaints.
• Maintain database of rubber formulations.
• Provide technical support to Sales, Purchasing, Materials Lab, Engineering and Production.
• Support activities of rubber laboratory staff, ensure safe operating conditions, and equipment maintenance / calibration.
• Work to support continual process and capability improvement.
• Identify and assist in remediation of any and all safety hazards in the workplace.
• Perform all functions while utilizing the appropriate PPE.
• Perform other related duties as directed by manager.
• Manage the team of Lab Technicians and provide support where needed.
• Manage lab operations in accordance with established procedures and company policies.
• Maintain team timecards and attendance tracking using the ADP Time-Keeper system.
• Collaborate closely with Human Resources to coordinate training programs, manage employee performance, and conduct annual evaluations for lab staff.

What You Will Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science with at least five years of experience in a rubber manufacturing facility, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Extensive experience in the development of rubber formulas, especially for organic compounds including EPT/EPDM, NBR, Chloroprene and Fluoroelastomers.
• Must have a strong working knowledge of properties and suppliers of: polymers, fillers, curatives, and antidegradants.
• Ability to support an in-house rubber mixing operation through the development of the mixing process, control of quality and process efficiency.
• Experienced with the analytical, chemical and physical testing of rubber compounds.
• Knowledge of rubber manufacturing methods and processes including compression, injection transfer, barwell extrusion, and internal and banbury mixing.
• Familiar with rubber to metal bonding formulation and process.
• Familiarity formulating in compliance with regulatory agencies and requirements such as: WGF, FDA, REACH RoHS.
• Knowledge of ASTM rubber testing standards and associated lab equipment such as: ODR, MDR, Tensile Testing, Compression Set, Heat Age, Immersion Testing, Tow roll lab mill.
• Demonstrate a highly-motivated work ethic and excellent organization and communication.
• Ability to work independently, efficiently, exercise strong discipline, and focus on safety.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Desire for continuous improvement and willingness to pursue ongoing training.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Compensation: • Health & Dental • Life Insurance • 401(k) with 100% match up to 4% • STD & LTD • Variety of Additional Supplemental Insurances • Company Paid Holidays, Vacation & PTO