Application Development Engineer

Keel Labs began in 2017 as Algi Knit, creating ocean-focused materials built from renewable resources. In 2022, Keel Labs was established as a platform for innovation, broadening our vision for the potential of the ocean to accelerate our planet’s development towards a more sustainable future. Driven by the exploration of novel resources from the ocean, Keel Labs functions as a hub for the next generation of climate‑focused solutions derived from nature.

So, though our name has changed, our mission remains the same:
Keel Labs works at the nexus of design, science, and engineering to create impact‑driven materials harnessing the power of the ocean.

Keel Labs is looking for a talented and motivated individual to support the growth and operation of our Research and Development team at our Morrisville office. The Application Development Engineer, along with the Research and Development Director will act as a liaison between our R&D and Business Development team. This position will provide critical support to our ongoing upstream development efforts and act as the go‑to technical person for yarn and fabric development.

Our employees gain a unique and fulfilling experience by developing and executing hands‑on approaches to sustainably‑minded strategies in a dynamic start‑up environment. Our team members benefit from a small, close‑knit working environment as all facets of our business are done collaboratively in our shared facilities.

• Assist Application Development Lead to develop existing and potential applications related to textile industry including nonwoven and technical textile.
• Design experiments, execute trials, collect and interpret data to inform upstream business development team and work closely with the production team to resolve technical issues.
• Identify equipment and processing issues impacting finished product quality, and performance while working with cross‑functional teams on problem resolution and solution implementation.
• Implement technical documentation packages, including raw material specifications, product specifications, stability, and general technical data to support the introduction of new products.
• Knowledge of AATCC/ASTM/ISO standards methods to support product testing when required.
• Cascade customer feedback to internal product specifications and recommend/perform necessary tests.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Research and Development Director.

• BS, with MS preferred, in textile engineering, material science engineering, or related discipline
• 2+ years working experience preferably within textile development
• Prior experience in yarn/fabric development including dyeing and finishing and testing methodologies
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams and facilitating teams to identify and implement solutions to ongoing issues
• Abile to effectively communicate in both technical and non‑technical details to internal and external stakeholders
• Self motivated, adaptable, and detail oriented
• Thrive in a fast paced, ever‑changing, and often challenging environment