Lead Materials Scientist

Lead Materials Scientist

Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies®, Kleenex®, Cottonelle®, Scott®, Kotex®, Poise®, Depend®, and Kimberly‑Clark Professional®. In this role you will shape the future of our Personal Care and Family Care wet wipes businesses by developing innovative materials and processes.

You are an experienced scientist/engineer who thrives on solving real‑world problems, collaborating with global teams, and driving projects from early innovation through commercialization.

• Lead and support material and process development projects/programs in the area of wipes base‑sheet materials, supporting K‑C’s global wet wipes businesses.
• Scope projects from early front‑end innovation through development and commercialization.
• Plan and carry out project responsibilities with limited assistance and direction.
• Communicate and document project plans and results to key customers.
• Provide functional guidance and leadership in the development and ongoing optimization of nonwoven materials and processes.
• Seek, recognize, define, and solve technical problems to determine root cause and develop and recommend solutions.
• Protect technologies, processes, materials, and products through appropriate use of patents and trade secrets.
• Develop knowledge and skills to be recognized as an effective implementer of research principles, scientific analysis, and project management.

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a related major scientific or engineering discipline and 3+ years of relevant materials and/or process experience in a variety of technical assignments.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to discuss technical issues in a business environment.
• Ability to travel up to 30%; flexible on work hours to support global customers.
• Strong knowledge and background in nonwoven materials and technology with a demonstrated ability to translate that knowledge into execution of process or product‑related initiatives.
• Preferred experience in polymer processing, coform, and/or alternative wet‑wipes base‑sheet (spunlace, wetlaid, or airlaid).
• Manufacturing experience in a plant assignment and/or with execution and startup of capital projects.

We are a committed equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification.

Employment is subject to verification of pre‑screening tests which may include drug screening, background check, and DMV check. Veterans and members of the Reserve and Guard are highly encouraged to apply. This role is available for local candidates already authorized to work in the role’s country only.