Manager, Polymer Formulation R&D at 3D Systems in Rock Hill, South Carolina

Job Description:

MANAGER, POLYMER FORMULATION R&D

WHO WE ARE:

More than 30 years ago, 3D Systems launched the 3D printing industry and has been leading additive manufacturing innovation ever since. Today, our diverse, global workforce brings innovation, performance, and reliability to every interaction - empowering our customers to create physical products at a digital pace. 3D Systems' solutions address a variety of advanced applications in healthcare and industrial markets such as medical and dental, aerospace & defense, automotive, and durable goods.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Manager, Polymer Formulation R&D will play a crucial role leading a team developing new polymer products for use in additive manufacturing applications. Reporting to the VP, Polymer Materials R&D and in coordination with the Chief Scientist, Polymer Materials, they will be responsible for polymer materials development across all hardware platforms, including vat photopolymerization, selective laser sintering, material jetting, and extrusion. This person should have deep knowledge of both UV-curable thermoset and thermoplastic polymer formulation as well as experience leading a team of chemists and materials scientists. This position is located at 3D Systems headquarters in Rock Hill, SC.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Lead a multi-site team of chemists and materials scientists to develop new or improved polymer materials for use across all 3D Systems plastic printers.
• Coordinate with other groups within the broader polymer materials R&D organization, including the print process and characterization teams, to understand the needs of various AM platforms and to incorporate feedback on existing and experimental materials into new material designs.
• Design and conduct structure-property investigations and formal DOE studies and use tools such as JMP, Minitab, or QuantumXL to complete statistical data analysis.
• Read and interpret a variety of characterization data, including but not limited to UV-Vis, DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA, and rheological data
• Research and understand material properties and collaborate with new and existing suppliers to meet business roadmap objectives.
• Frequently collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain organizations to support evaluation of raw materials, development of QC specs on both raws and finished products, validation of alternate suppliers, and troubleshooting of quality issues.
• Stay up to date on current academic research and conduct literature searches to support innovation and advancements in current technology.
• Contribute to 3D Systems' robust IP portfolio using both patents and trade secrets.
• Mentor and develop a talent pool ranging from interns to principal researchers to ensure business continuity and continued innovation for years to come.
• Summarize data and create reports and presentations for both technical teams and senior/executive management.
• Work safely and efficiently in a lab setting with minimal supervision.

Qualifications

• A PhD in Chemistry or another polymer adjacent field is required. Related disciplines will also be considered with relevant experience.
• 5+ years of experience formulating successful products for plastic technologies is required.
• Previous management experience of small teams is required.
• Experience with DOE tools and statistical techniques is strongly preferred.
• Experience managing a flexible daily schedule based on business demands and priorities.
• Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and technical communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong commitment to both internal and external customer satisfaction
• Proven "can do" mind set: Ability to work independently and collaboratively to deliver results.

Make a meaningful difference

Founded in 1986, we are the original pioneers of 3D printing. Today, we have a diverse global team that is at the forefront of shaping the entire additive space that spans everything from aerospace to healthcare. What we're doing in digital manufacturing is changing lives and transforming how the world makes things. It's a big responsibility to have this type of impact. And it's where we thrive.

Be you, at your best

We care about treating people right and we know that life is more than work. This is why we approach rewards and benefits at a personal level so that you have the resources you need to take care of yourself and be you, at your best.

Below are a few of the rewards and benefits we offer:

• Comprehensive health plans
• Generous paid parental and bereavement leave
• Hybrid work practices for better work/life balance
• Industry leading vacation practices
• Paid volunteer time
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching
• Engaging employee recognition program
• Opportunities to grow and develop