Materials and Chemistry Principal Engineer

​Main purpose of the job:

• Responsible for the oversight of the chemistry employed in all engineering and industrial applications relating to the design, engineering, and manufacture of automotive interior trim.

Main objectives and results:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of all the chemical processes utilised within our product and manufacturing portfolio.

• Analyse the specifications to which we must comply, and steer the engineering teams to the most suitable solutions.

• Analyse and document the chemical applications in all of our products (Polymers, adhesives, polyurethanes etc).

• Investigate and document the differing surface structures and properties of materials used within the automotive interior trim sector to ensure adhesive properties, environmental resistance, VOCs etc are all addressed.

• Support the analysis of failures with our product through detailed definition of the chemistry.

• Work between our suppliers and our engineers to ensure the needs of materials and chemicals used within our process are properly understood and controlled.

• Ensure the engineering and process rules are aligned with the needs to manage the chemistry within our products and processes.

• Support the R&D group with guidance on considerations around differing material and process

• Ensure world class quality and design engineering principles are utilised in order to achieve reductions in overall product cost to enhance company position in the competitive market.

• Participate in the development of annual business planning and long-term strategic business development.

• As a team member and coach, support and enhance employee development and employee participation.

Preferred skills and experience:

• Either 10 years’ experience as an industrial chemist, or a Bsc in chemistry or related subject. The ideal candidate will have both, but either will be acceptable.

• Knowledge and understanding of adhesives and polyurethanes is preferable.

• Knowledge of polymers in industrial applications is advantageous.

Preferred skills and experience:

• Ability to identify additional support needed from suppliers / laboratories and potential academic institutions in order to deliver quick analysis and results.

• Possess high level of diplomacy for both internal and external customer contacts

• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal, management and communication skills

• Fluent English