Sr. R&D Manager of Mfg plastics exp. req

Sr. R&D Manager (5+ yrs. of Mfg plastics exp. req. $125K+)

Posted February 27

Location:

outside of Elkhorn, WI

Salary: $125,000 - $150,000 + Annual Performance Bonus + Benefits

Job Type: Full-Time

Typical

Hours:

Mon - Fri, 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM (Flexible)

Start Date:

ASAP

Sponsorship is not available

Relocation Assistance is available

Our client, a well-established manufacturing company, is seeking a Senior R&D Manager to lead product innovation and technical development efforts. With an average employee tenure exceeding 10 years, the organization offers a stable, collaborative environment where technical expertise is valued and long‑term careers are built. This hands‑on, individual contributor role focuses on new product development, process optimization, and technical feasibility, allowing you to make a direct impact without managing a team.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in laminating, coatings, and specialty material processing, with a proven ability to move concepts from lab validation to full‑scale production. You will play a pivotal role in developing high‑performance materials for demanding industrial applications where durability, precision, and reliability are essential. This opportunity offers autonomy and meaningful influence within a long‑standing organization committed to product excellence and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities:

• Lead new product development from feasibility assessment through pilot and production scale
• Conduct technical evaluations and trials for new product initiatives
• Collaborate with suppliers to assess material capabilities and specifications
• Develop, audit, and refine process specifications to ensure consistent and reliable production
• Redesign existing products to reduce cost, improve performance, or enhance customer satisfaction
• Participate in cross‑functional meetings with Production, Materials, Quality, and Sales
• Manage trial requests, technical validations, and data documentation
• Support chemical and hazardous material management
• Assist in planning and evaluating departmental budgets, project goals, and technical objectives
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant R&D lab environment

Qualifications:

• 5+ years in a technical role within plastics manufacturing
• Hands‑on experience with laminating processes (solvent‑based, solventless, and/or water‑based coatings)
• Experience with extrusion or slitting equipment
• Proficiency with MS Office

Benefits include Medical insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, 401(k), Disability insurance.