R&D Engineer

Summary The Mgr, Technology is a specialized position accountable for contributing to HarbisonWalker Internationals overall business performance by overseeing the development of new and improved products and process improvements related to functional pre-cast products.  This role is responsible for resolving technical issues on current products and manufacturing processes. The Mgr, Technology collaborates with the HarbisonWalker International Product Management and Applications Technology team(s) to develop and implement functional product roadmap.  In addition, this role assists in proposed plant/field trials.  
  Job Duties

• Overseeing and conducting laboratory research to develop new or improved functional products/processes/methods and fundamental studies including documentation and reporting
• Collaborating with other functions of HarbisonWalker International by developing/providing technological knowledge and creating/implementing functional product roadmaps
• Directing and coaching other team members in project work
• Planning, listing and performing plant and/or field trials and evaluating product properties including documentation and reporting
• Applying refractory application knowledge by reviewing patents, submitting patent applications, reviewing/publishing technical and trade publications and participating/presenting in professional society technical meetings
• Proposing innovative knowledge offerings and solutions to meet customer needs
• Supporting the HarbisonWalker Business System (HBS) and ISO 9001 by identifying and implementing opportunities for continuous process improvement as metrics warrant

  Qualifications 

• The Mgr, Technology requires generally requires eight (8) – ten (10) years of experience in refractory or related research or process work.
• BS degree in Ceramic Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering or related field
• Requires knowledge of product development techniques, experimental design, general chemistry, formulation science, forming and firing processes, refractory materials, and refractory operations
• Requires knowledge of statistical analysis and modeling program; for example, MiniTab
• Requires aptitude and discipline to recognize and report abnormal test results
• Requires computer operation skills including, proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Requires strong interpersonal and oral and written communications skills and the ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment
• Requires excellent organization skills with accurate and precise attention to detail
• Requires strategic thinking and business acumen
• Requires attention to detail and efficient management of time, including ability to prioritize assignments, solve problems, and meet deadlines