Lead efforts to develop process technologies for wood composites and identify cost reduction opportunities in design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Conduct prototype process evaluations by designing experiments, analyzing results, formulating conclusions, and making recommendations.
Oversee process definition, purchase, installation, and commissioning of process capabilities at Owens Corning production facilities for sustaining innovation and new product development, including some programming of process controls.
Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for woodfiber composite facings, ensuring product consistency and quality.
Oversee the design, testing, and implementation of manufacturing processes for wood composite doors, focusing on efficiency, durability, and performance.
Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate research findings and project progress.
Ensure all new pilot and laboratory capabilities comply with safety, environmental, and health regulations.
Document new processes and procedures through records of invention, equipment specifications, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and behavioral job analyses (BJAs).
Develop and implement testing protocols to ensure product quality and performance.
Coordinate with suppliers, external and in-house test labs, and maintain communication with stakeholders.
Lead the scale-up of new or modified process and product technologies in our manufacturing plants by designing and conducting production trials, resolving process issues, qualifying the process, and ensuring successful implementation.
Interface with manufacturing engineering and production technicians to improve processes, troubleshoot issues, and facilitate operations across all manufacturing plants.
Lead or participate in safety, quality, productivity, or housekeeping improvement programs (e.g., 5S, Kaizen events).
Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and advancements in wood composite materials and other wood based products.
Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in Wood Science and Engineering, Materials Science, Composite Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required; a Ph.D. is preferred with a strong knowledge and experience in wood composite materials and manufacturing processes.
Experience Requirements:
Minimum of 5 years of experience in Research and Development with a deep understanding of wood composite materials and their application in manufacturing processes.
Proven success in leading the development and implementation of process technologies to support new product launches and advanced manufacturing initiatives.
Experience with process technologies specific to wood composite manufacturing, such as woodfiber, MDF, HDF, engineered wood, or particleboard.
Expertise in process technologies relevant to wood composite manufacturing, such as fiber refining, binder addition, hot pressing, adhesive bonding, and surface finishing techniques.
Experience with automation and control systems used in wood composite manufacturing to enhance efficiency and precision.
Understanding of the dimensional stability of wood-based components and its effect on product performance.
Capable of working independently, including conducting research, designing experiments, analyzing results, and developing recommendations.
Proficiency in implementing and monitoring quality control procedures to maintain high standards in wood composite door production.
Ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment, collaborating effectively with team members and leaders from other functions.
Capability to conduct process failure analysis and material testing to improve product reliability and performance.
Execute with a sense of urgency and an open innovation mindset.
Knowledge of industry standards, building codes, and compliance requirements related to wood composite materials and respective manufacturing.
Proficiency in relevant computer software and applications is required; Lean Six Sigma certification is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Able to navigate within a large corporation and demonstrate resilience while looking for opportunities to generate value and commercialize ideas.
Resilience and Tolerance for Ambiguity: Able to make difficult decisions and pursue ambitious goals with limited resources and imperfect information.
Planning/Organizing: Focus on key business priorities and translate this focus into productive results by clarifying goals. Track record of successful project management.
Curious Learner: Passionate about technologies, constantly learning and ideating.
Conflict Management: Comfortable managing conflicting points of view; able to make and communicate tough decisions to affected parties.
Alignment and Decision Making: Shows good, independent judgment; involves the appropriate individuals in discussions but ultimately owns decisions and commits to a course of action.
Collaboration: Positively influence the activity of others, both internal and external, to achieve business goals; energetic team player who enjoys working with cross-functional and international teams in a fast-paced environment.