A leading global brake supplier is seeking a Senior Formulator to drive the development and implementation of new chemical formulations and processes for commercial vehicle air disc pads. This role will focus on evaluating technical projects for new product development while prioritizing initiatives in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams, providing technical expertise and guidance to enhance product innovation and competitiveness.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of friction material formulations and manufacturing processes for complex projects with customers or to enhance the company’s product portfolio.
- Work closely with the Application Engineer to manage the product development process, ensuring compliance with customer requirements, legal standards, cost objectives, and project timelines.
- Research and integrate new raw materials to enhance the value and competitiveness of existing formulations and manufacturing processes.
- Optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce rejection rates, and increase overall productivity.
- Initiate and lead Competitiveness Projects, evaluating alternative suppliers and raw materials through technical analysis and structured experimentation.
- Define and prioritize development projects based on technical feasibility, business potential, market trends, and strategic goals.
- Manage the formulation portfolio, balancing market demand with productivity and competitiveness improvements.
- Oversee ERP system activities related to formulation management, including Engineering Change Requests (ECRs), master recipes, Bills of Materials (BOM), and other relevant documentation to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.
- Lead or participate in research and innovation initiatives within the company.
- Provide mentorship and support to others working on low-complexity projects.
- Contribute to continuous process improvement in the Product Development Engineering, Research, and Innovation department, ensuring proper documentation and maintenance of work instructions.
- Utilize established quality tools such as PFMEA, DFMEA, DVP, DOE, and others to ensure robust product and process design.
- Apply project management tools to effectively manage projects and action plans.
- Perform additional responsibilities as required to support company objectives.
Required Qualifications:
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering or Chemistry is preferred.
- Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in friction material development for OEM customers is required.