Research and Development Technical Manager I/II 1

Our world needs ideas! As one of the world’s most research-intensive chemical companies, Wacker has been developing leading solutions for numerous sectors – from construction to photovoltaics and cosmetics to rubber – for over 100 years. We have a global presence with production sites on three continents and 13,800 employees from 70 nations. This success is grounded in our capability to develop new innovative solutions based on chemistries from our Silicones, Polymers, BioSolutions business divisions and leverage synergies wherever possible.

As part of WACKER’s commitment to sustainability, we are creating a new team designed to focus on providing sustainable, (bio)degradable, high performing, cost effective solutions catered to the Personal Care Industry. With our sustainability strategy we promote a balance between ecological, social, and economic needs to be in the forefront of next cycle of innovation

At our Ann Arbor Innovation Center, we are currently looking for a new R&D Technical Manager as we grow our R&D team

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and technical direction to all stages of interdisciplinary R&D projects to reach milestones and targets in a timely manner.
• Advance competitiveness of technology within the Personal Care arena with a focus on sustainable, biodegradable and high performance materials
• Lead and support project teams, communicate and document results, focus resources to meet priorities, survey IP landscape and generate IP, coordinate/align with internal stakeholders as needed
• Lead a team of 2-4 scientists: help foster a high-performance organization by setting an example in scientific excellence, work ethic, leadership, safety and
• training. Support recruiting and onboarding, conduct performance reviews, and drive professional development of team members
• Contribute to a creative R&D environment in internal and external innovation discovery discussions and develop and evaluate new ideas. Collaborate
• with internal partners to translate market needs into future projects.
• Manage all aspects of an advanced laboratory setting, with emphasis on EHS excellence. Plan, purchase and maintain laboratory equipment and
• instrumentation. Further strengthen safety protocols and practices
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders, both regionally and globally, to support and advance developments. Present WACKER's innovative
• strength and disseminate technical developments through publications and presentations
• Initiate and direct external testing and scientific collaborations

Job Qualifications:

• Minimum of M.S. Chemistry, Polymer Science or related field, Ph.D preferred
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in a relevant field, including 3 years of technical supervisory or leadership experience
• Expert knowledge of Chemistry, Polymer Science or related field
• Knowledge of formulation technology and/or bio-based polymers is a plus
• Strong technical leadership and project management skills proven by successful completion of multiple R&D programs
• Strong verbal and written communication skills - excellent scientific writing skills demonstrated by multiple technical publications and patents
• Excellent organizations and interpersonal skills; ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities. Must be able to work effectively as
• part of a multi-disciplinary team in a global setting
• Strong background in R&D processes and IP related aspects required
• Supervisory or team lead experience within a laboratory setting is required
• Strong commitment to EHSS excellence.

WACKER, as an innovative chemical company, makes a vital contribution toward improving the quality of life around the world by developing intelligent solutions for sustainable growth. Our culture focuses on building and retaining diverse and inclusive teams. WACKER offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, competitive benefit offerings and beyond through giving back to our communities.

Be part of our WACKER family, across all nations!

We are looking forward to your online application at www.wacker.com.
Reference Code: 24603 

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The information contained herein is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. A minimum requirement for this US-based position is the ability to work legally in the United States on a permanent unrestricted basis.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, including for any type of US permanent residency (e.g., for a Green card).

WACKER is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.