Senior Engineer, Development

Legal Entity: Woodbridge Foam Corporation  

Requisition ID: 3877

About Woodbridge

We are innovators using advanced technology to manufacture next generation products.  We are pioneers in foam technology science and provide our products to customers in multiple industries.  We are a global team of over 7,000 teammates strong who are laser focused on quality, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability.  We are proud to give back to the communities in which we live and work through our Woodbridge Cares programs that serves communities around the world through volunteerism and philanthropy.  We are a people centric organization that has been awarded numerous recognitions for our commitment to manufacturing excellence and innovation.  Join us and be part of a team that is shaping the future of foam technology. 

Woodbridge Culture

Woodbridge takes immense pride in its robust corporate (think people first, innovation, lets get to it, manufacturing focused) culture, which serves our customers, Teammates, and the world. We're thrilled to share that in 2024, Woodbridge has been awarded Deloitte’s Best Managed designation for eight consecutive years. This accolade is not just an award; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, inspiring you to be a part of our journey!

What's in it for you?

• Competitive Compensation & Benefits Plan
• Defined Contribution Plan with additional company match – Automatic company contribution to a top quartile retirement savings plan with more incentives to match
• Flexible Working Hours
• Employee Assistance Program with free access to health and wellness coaches
• Continuous Learning Culture – We believe in Upskilling & Internal Promotions!

Role Purpose:

A Senior Chemist in the Corporate Chemical Research and Development (CRD) Department is responsible for design and execution of experiments leading to the development of new foam formulations, new manufacturing processes, and subsequent implementation in manufacturing. As a Senior Chemist in the Chemical Research and Development Laboratory, you will be responsible for conducting research, development, and optimization of chemical processes and products. Your expertise in chemistry, laboratory techniques, and project management will contribute to the successful development and commercialization of innovative solutions. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to improve existing products, develop new formulations, and drive the advancement of products from concept to production.

Major Responsibilities and Activities:

Research and Development:

• Continuously expand technical knowledge and understanding and develop expertise in polyurethane formulation, processing, and applications. Attend selected technical conferences and trade shows to learn about new technical developments and technological trends (DU)
• Develop new, innovative solutions for existing technical challenges. Analyze and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot issues, and propose solutions
• Support the development of strategic and agreed upon projects for chemical technologies while adhering to the Stage Gate Process for Research and Development.
• Design and execute experiments to develop chemical formulations, processes, or methodologies which lead to commercial products.
• Optimize existing products or processes to enhance their performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Report on development progress highlighting accomplishments, challenges and recommendations for continuation or termination
• Regularly screen patents and technical literature for concepts and ideas that can be applied to Chemical or Process Development Conduct literature reviews to stay updated with the latest advancements and identify opportunities for improvement.

Business Acumen:

• Leverage Product Directors and BU team to evaluate market opportunity for project being proposed
• Establish initial business case with Product and BU teams
• Understand and promote value proposition for development work being proposed
• Be selective in development work being taken on based on ROI and payback for project
• Manage development costs and budget for the project
• Assess chemistry costs and commercialization path with finance

Project Management:

• Lead or participate in cross-functional project teams, coordinating activities, setting milestones, and ensuring project deliverables are met.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders such as engineers, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams to align project goals and facilitate seamless scale-up and production.
• Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets, and regularly report progress to management and stakeholders.
• Identify risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Deliver presentations to the Technical Management Team to review ongoing development projects or to provide status updates as required during the Stage-Gate Development Process
• Deliver internal presentations to peers. These are very detailed and technical in every respect, with the intent to share information and to solicit input/feedback.
• Deliver external presentations to customers, vendors and/or the public to introduce technology and support Commercial initiatives

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, observations, and results following Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation summarizing research findings, progress, and recommendations.
• Contribute to the preparation of patent applications, regulatory submissions, and intellectual property protection.
• Ensure that R&D Projects assigned are executed on time and on budget.
• Mentor direct reports in the areas of technical excellence, teamwork and continuous learning.
• Encourage team mates to maintain work areas neat and the Laboratory clean and organized at all times including supporting WPS, Kaizen, and 5S practices.

Collaboration and Teamwork:

• Collaborate with colleagues from different disciplines, including analytical chemistry, materials science, and engineering, to leverage expertise and foster innovation.
• Actively participate in scientific conferences, seminars, and workshops to stay abreast of advancements in the field and share knowledge with the scientific community.
• Participate in project meetings, brainstorming sessions, and technical discussions to drive innovation and problem-solving

Safety and Compliance:

• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and colleagues.
• Comply with applicable regulations, quality standards, and company policies throughout the development process

Minimum Qualifications, Formal Education, Certification or Equivalent

• A Master of Science or Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field
  5-10 years of laboratory experience (Academia or Professional). Proven experience in a research and development environment, preferably within the chemical industry
• Proficient knowledge of chemical synthesis, reaction kinetics, and characterization techniques.
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities, with attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Salary Range:  $ 92,500 - 115,600

Woodbridge is committed to fostering a diverse workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider applicants without regard to race, colour, ancestry, creed, place of origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, disability, or any other protected status. If you have any accommodation requirements, please let us know, and we will do our best to meet your needs in accordance with applicable local legislation.