Process/Product Development Director/Engineer (Polymer and Fiber)

Open until filled-

Dedicated Production/Product Development Manager/Engineer specializing in Polymer and Fiber technologies. Proven leadership in steering the establishment and operation of cutting-edge fiber and polymer development facilities. Proficient in overseeing the installation and commissioning of fiber and chemical processing equipment. Adept at managing day-to-day operations, setting up machinery to user specifications, and providing insightful consultation for optimal trial outcomes. Skilled in cultivating industry contacts and relationships. Reports directly to the Vice President-Fiber Innovation and Facilities Development.

*Pay will be based on experience. *

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Team leadership and day-to-day production management of technicians and specialists. Assigning daily tasks and priorities. Ensure team members are following safety protocols. Track leave time, sick time, and timecards. Mentor and motivate team in growth and advancement. Organize training and learning in technologies needed to achieve Textile Technology Center/Fiber Innovation Center goals.
2. Perform work assigned in developing new products through the operation and maintenance of various yarn and fabric formation machinery. Document operating procedures and equipment specifications as needed. 
3. Establish and maintain industry contacts and relationships. Establish a good report with industry leaders, innovators, and engineers. Maintain a customer service frame of mind with an elevated level of professionalism while representing the center positively. 
4. Advise and consult with clients as needed on trial planning and process development to assure the best possible outcomes of the clients’ work.
5. Read and follow production work orders, processing instructions, and operation manuals to ensure accurate and quality machine set-up and material processing for a variety of processes including fiber extrusion, polymer synthesis, fiber and yarn texturizing, drawing cutting and crimping.
6. Observe all equipment and materials for quality and production including machine downtime/malfunction, monitoring yarn packages or materials, identifying yarn breaks and making repairs, and doffing packages as needed. 
7. Operate and observe equipment to detect malfunctions or defects and adjust machine controls as needed. Oversee and/or perform routine maintenance on related labs and equipment. Develop and apply a preventive maintenance program for applicable equipment.
8. Inspect or diagnose equipment, structures, or materials to identify the causes of errors or other problems or defects, and troubleshoot, fix, service, align, set up, adjust, and test machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment to achieve product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
9. Design or create new applications, ideas, and systems, when necessary to achieve established goals. Combine, evaluate, and analyze information and data to make decisions and solve problems.
10. Maintain records and reports for all technical assistance projects, classes, and activities.
11. Follow all safety procedures and assist in continually improving and evaluating Environmental Health & Safety culture and policies.
12. Attend staff meetings and other related special meetings as required.
13. Perform other duties as assigned, including special projects.
14. Maintain a high standard of professionalism in representing the College including confidentiality in all aspects of the position’s responsibilities and adherence to policies, procedures, and other established guidelines as appropriate. Adhere to professional accountability and accept responsibility for managing situations and problems. Work cooperatively with team members and colleagues, contributing positively and constructively to the achievement of team and College objectives and provide a high level of service to customers by establishing and maintaining effective working relationships and partnerships.
    MINIMUM EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS
    Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering, Textile Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or similar relevant STEM program required.
    Machine maintenance or electronics training/certification is a plus.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• At least five years of experience in fiber making or chemical processing.
• Prior experience with team management or direct reports a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Exposure to typical elements associated with a textile manufacturing and lab environment.
• Work environment can be stressful at times in dealing with a wide variety of challenges and deadlines.
• In addition to regular office hours, position sometimes requires overtime and/or evening hours.

BENEFITS

Gaston College provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program.  We are continuously investigating new benefit offerings that are responsive to the needs of our regular** employees.

• State Health Plan
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Additional Supplemental Insurances
• NC State Retirement Plan
• Supplemental Retirement Plans
• Disability Benefits, Long- and Short-Term
• Longevity Pay
• State Employees' Credit Union Eligibility
• Leave (Vacation, Sick, FMLA, Civil and Military, Child/Student Involvement, Education, and Voluntary Shared)
• Paid Holidays
• Educational Advancement Compensation
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Discount Program
• Benefits Overview Booklet

**Please note:   Temporary (part-time) employees do not earn benefits.

Salary/Compensation: $75,000 - $90,000 per year

recblid qwl75k63xmvxzjmqdnqew3zkct0y2z