Job Information
Knowlton Technologies, LLC Research and Development Manager in Watertown, New York
JOB SUMMARY: The Research and Development Manager is responsible for research, planning, and implementing new programs and protocols into our company. You will also be required to oversee the entire development process of new products and programs within the organization. Your active participation will be required from the initial planning phase to implementation or production. Additionally, you are required to keep track of all the costs related to the creation of these new products and decide what ideas are worth pursuing. You should also stay informed on what is happening in the research and development field at large to make sure the company is up-to-date and current with the most advanced R&D developments. Manage and direct R&D activities concerned with development, application, and maintenance of all product lines associated with Knowlton.
The Research and Development Manager will select, coach and retain qualified staff that contribute to division and company goals. They ensure the highest quality performance through feedback, training and development of their personnel. The Research and Development is responsible for the alignment of the strategic direction of the group with that of the division and the results delivered by the group. They will champion and drive project execution, critical thinking and innovation speed on the groups deliverables.
The Research and Development Manager will have to use creative abilities and research methods to improve existing products based on industry trends and develop new products to meet the needs of the companys target market. You are expected to report on any technical product issues that are discovered during evaluation and manage product testing and trials, assessing the materials used, the efficiency of the process, and the effectiveness of the final product.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Engineering or related Science field and/ or five to ten years related experience in the paper or allied industries. Experience in research and development and IATF 16949 total quality management is also desirable. Prior industrial textile fiber experience is preferred. Prior experience with process and/or product development is a plus Prior experience with managing personnel (delivering and receiving coaching/feedback; Human Resources processes) is preferred. Ability to understand and guide work for a cross functional team. Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills; Ability to communicate the right level of detail to the right audience, at the right time. Self-starter, driven by the investigation, discovery, and implementation of new technologies and meeting customer needs. Demonstrated ability to prioritize, make assignments, and ensure execution in a high activity environment. Demonstrated competency with developing technology strategy is preferred. Willingness to travel to suppliers, customers and trade shows (domestic and international).