Global Director Research Development Engineering

About the role

Dura-Line, an Orbia business, is looking for an experienced Global Research & Development Director to lead its global R&D organization and drive the next generation of materials, products and technologies for critical infrastructure markets. The role provides technical and strategic leadership across product development, materials science, testing, qualification, commercialization and innovation, and is based onsite in Clinton, Tennessee, with domestic and international travel required. It reports to the Director, Business Development.

Key responsibilities

• Lead product, material, formulation and technology development from concept through commercialization.
• Establish and execute the global R&D strategy aligned to business objectives and growth initiatives.
• Make final technical decisions on materials, testing, product qualification, specifications and launch readiness.
• Direct and develop a team of R&D professionals and build technical capability across the organization.
• Manage a global portfolio of innovation projects, balancing priorities, resources, risks and budgets.
• Partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Procurement, Commercial, Product Management and executive leadership.
• Drive product performance improvements, manufacturing scale-up and process optimization.
• Collaborate with suppliers, testing laboratories, certification agencies, customers and industry partners.
• Translate complex technical findings into actionable business recommendations and executive-level communications.
• Assess laboratory capabilities and innovation priorities to set a roadmap for future growth.

Required profile

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Engineering or a related discipline.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in industrial R&D, polymers, materials engineering, product development, extrusion or related technical leadership roles.
• Experience leading technical teams and commercializing new products and technologies.
• Experience supporting global operations and international teams, and in infrastructure, plastics, materials, manufacturing, telecommunications, power, utility or related industries.

Required skills

• Strong expertise in thermoplastics, polyethylene, extrusion, compounding, manufacturing processes and materials performance.
• Testing methodologies, DOE, statistical analysis and data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate with senior leadership.

What we offer

• Compensation typically ranging from $151,000 to $200,000 annually, with possible short- and long-term incentives.
• Healthcare coverage, 401(k), paid holidays, vacation and sick time, parental leave, disability leave, tuition reimbursement and an employee assistance program.