Senior Materials Engineer - Innovation Group

Senior Materials Engineer

The Senior Materials Engineer is part of the Innovation Group, responsible for applied research, engineering development, and technical support for manufacturing operations. The team drives new product innovations and ensures continuity in raw material supply to global operations, all while supporting corporate business goals and values. This position will lead or support multiple projects—ranging from moderate to major in scope—focused on developing and validating new reinforcement materials for rubber products and enhancing existing materials. While this position has no direct supervisory duties, success requires strong self-management, cross-functional collaboration, and effective communication across technical, operations, and commercial teams.

Location: Columbia, MO (Relocation Package: $35k lump sum for homeowners, $15k for renters)

Compensation: $115,000 - $145,000 base salary +10% bonus.

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, LTD, Tuition Reimbursement. 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued. 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match. Benefits begin first day of the month following hire.

Key Responsibilities

Design, process, and test reinforcement materials used in manufactured rubber goods.

Lead or support new product development projects ensuring quality, performance, and cost efficiency.

Coordinate lab and production trials with cross-functional teams (Quality, Operations, Lab, Continuous Improvement).

Analyze and interpret test results to guide material improvements and validation.

Collect and evaluate information on new materials and suppliers to maintain a competitive edge.

Collaborate with purchasing and suppliers to manage raw material continuity and availability.

Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve material or production issues.

Recommend and implement product, process, or material improvements.

Prepare technical reports, data analyses, and presentations.

Develop or refine testing methods and documentation.

Keys to Success

Hands-on experience with prototyping and manufacturing processes.

Proficiency in experimental design and statistical data analysis.

Strong teamwork, communication, and technical writing skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and solve complex technical problems.

Experience working independently while coordinating with suppliers, customers, and internal teams.

Familiarity with process development, engineering practices, and industry test methods.

Skilled with software tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and databases.

Qualifications Seeking:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or related field.

Minimum 8 years of experience in materials development or manufacturing.

Master’s or PhD preferred.

Certifications (preferred): Six Sigma, IATF 16949 knowledge, ACS Rubber Certification.

Experience with Minitab, JMP, and Design of Experiments methodologies desired.