Research & Development Manager

NeoGraf has been the world leader in the industry for more than 140 years, developing the most comprehensive graphite solutions since 1881. Our products are the reason why some of today's most technologically advanced products are able to perform and work the way they do. Our depth of knowledge, training, understanding and discipline is unmatched in the market, and there's no stopping where we can go from here.

We have an immediate opening for a Research and Development Manager at our Lakewood, OH facility. The primary function of this position is to oversee and guide all activities related to research, development, and solutions for our customers' specific needs.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth research on graphite and complimentary materials, properties, and applications.
• Create prototypes of graphite-based solutions and oversee their testing and validation in real-world manufacturing settings.
• Explore innovative approaches to enhance graphite performance and complimentary for diverse manufacturing applications.
• Design and develop graphite-based and complimentary solutions that meet customer specifications and address their manufacturing and operational challenges.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in graphite and complimentary technology, manufacturing processes, and industry trends. Apply this knowledge to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
• Perform comprehensive testing and analysis of graphite and complimentary materials to evaluate their suitability for various applications. Provide data-driven recommendations to guide product development and improvements.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate research findings, solution proposals, and performance evaluations to both internal teams and customers.
• Maintain a comprehensive and detailed awareness of the worldwide technical literature in both the specific technical field and related technical areas. Leverage similar experimental and theoretical techniques, development programs, research programs, plant processes, and problem-solving approaches to inform research and development efforts.
• Manage research projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and milestones are met. Coordinate resources effectively to deliver high-quality solutions.
• Oversee and provide training to technicians involved in testing and analysis activities.
• Plan and manage work using the processes and tools (Stage Gate, LEAN, etc.) identified by management, ensuring timely execution of projects and efficient resource allocation.
• Write detailed reports documenting experimental work, methodologies, results, and conclusions. Prepare and review idea disclosures and patent applications as needed.
• Work closely with internal teams, including R&D, Engineering, and Product Management, to drive collaborative problem-solving and deliver comprehensive customer solutions.
• Ensure a culture of behavior-based safety by adhering to safety protocols and guidelines in all research and testing activities, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and others.
• Up to 25% travel may be required - both domestic and international.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience:

• Master's degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., engineering, science, or a related discipline); a Ph.D. is preferred.
• Proven experience in R&D management within a technical manufacturing organization.
• Strong knowledge of product development, research methodologies, and innovation strategies and related tools i.e. Stage Gate, Innovation Create sessions, Mind mapping, patent mining, etc.
• Excellent project management skills and the ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Demonstrated success in bringing new products to market with a well-developed understanding the relationship between development support and product profitability
• Has thorough knowledge of plant processes and problems in areas related to the person's technical specialty and knowledge in other areas.
• Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor and develop technical leaders
• Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with intellectual property management and legal requirements.
• Budget management and financial acumen.
• Strong knowledge of HS&EP Best Practices and procedures.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience along with the opportunity to join a well-established organization. If you thrive in a challenging, industrial environment and have a proven track record in achieving results, we invite you to come shape the world with us

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For immediate consideration, please apply via our Careers page at . For additional information about NeoGraf Solutions, please visit our website at .

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disabled/Veteran