R&D Manager - Polyurethanes & Thermoplastics

R&D Manager – Polyurethanes Ortega thermoplastics

Join to apply for the R&D Manager – Polyurethanes Ortega thermoplastics role at TRCC.

At TRCC, innovation isn’t just a department. It’s part of our DNA. Headquartered in the heart of Northwest Georgia, TRCC has grown from a latex supplier to a global leader in advanced chemical solutions, with a footprint that spans every continent. Located in Dalton, Georgia – proudly known as the “Carpet Capital of the World” – the area offers an exceptional quality of life, scenic beauty, low cost of living, thriving communities, and convenient access to both Atlanta and Chattanooga.

We are currently hiring an experienced R&D Manager for our Polyurethane & Thermoplastics lab who will manage and direct the research and development programs to meet organizational needs, capitalize on potential new products, and sustain current products with new technology.

• Employee must pass a fitness for duty test, drug screen and submit to a TB test on a post‑offer employment physical.
• Oversees R&D employees in the Polyurethane and Thermoplastic areas.
• Oversees schedules and assignments for the department.
• Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
• Handles discipline and termination of employees as needed in accordance with company policy.
• Works with CCO to develop R&D operating budget.
• Delivers progress and reports to CCO as requested.
• Provides new innovative ideas and transforms them into commercialization concepts and presents them to management team and customers.
• Provides technical support for product development and commercialization of new and current products for the manufacturing department.
• Ability to formulate and modify products based on customer needs.
• Develops process specification and ensures training and transfer of scientific knowledge to QA and operations.
• Creates accurate toekomstige & specifications for products and raw materials.
• Provides support for documentation, labeling, and regulatory compliance.
• Supports R&D members with identification of ingredients and sourcing.
• Follow safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Performs other related duties as necessary or assigned.

• Strong knowledge of PU chemistry and applications (10+ years of experience with a proven innovation track record) focusing on research & formulation development that leads to new product commercialization.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and industry standards.
• Familiarity with advanced engineering software and tools used in product design and analysis.
• Proven track record of driving innovation and bringing new products to market successfully.
• Experience in developing and implementing product development strategies that result in improved performance and a competitive advantage.
• Ability to present complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Results‑driven with a focus on meeting project timelines and delivering high‑quality products.
• Self‑starter that can work independently and manage a team of chemists/technicians.
• Excellent communicator that will present progress and plans on a timely basis, acting as a key contributor to the Technical/Commercial/Operational collaborations.
• Ideally a strong manager who can mentor and motivate the PU lab personnel.
• Solid interpersonal skills allowing for critical customer interactions.
• Ability to quickly identify and develop solutions to technical problems.
• Available to travel on a limited basis domestically and internationally to provide technical support.
• Working knowledge of SAP.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, required.
• Minimum of 10 years experience in specialty chemical research andgt development, required.

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk while using a computer and phone.
• Prolonged periods of standing while working at the lab workbench.
• Work typically performed in a temperature‑controlled and noise‑controlled environment.
• The job is normally performed in a quiet environment; however, there can be unexpected, sudden loud…