Materials Development Engineer

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Ultra-Poly Corporation is a pioneer in recycling plastics through innovative manufacturing processes. We are a family‑owned and operated regional business with our corporate headquarters located in Portland, PA. Our work culture is supportive and provides opportunities to grow in an environmentally responsible business. We strive to be an employer that you can be proud to be a part of the team.

This position applies fundamental knowledge of basic principles, theories and concepts of industry standards and practices to support activities within both Material Development and Quality Departments. Occasionally assist plant trials for process development work is also required. As part of our innovation group, the role requires a diverse background in the plastic industry with a practical mindset and sense of urgency.

The position works with the Sales team, owns the customer sampling request process, and interacts with customers during material development phases to match properties to their specifications before handing over to the Commercial Department. The candidate must exhibit a "can‑do" mindset and carry projects independently in an industrial environment. The role also supports the Quality Department in implementing changes to testing protocols and new procedures.

• Develop material (compound) that matches the customer’s specification
• Collaborate with Sales and Production during the material development phase
• Own the sampling request process—monitoring, follow‑up, testing, reporting, logistics, etc.—and drive performance through the development cycle
• Perform material evaluations following proper procedures and protocols
• Operate all instrument and process equipment in the QC office/lab area
• Analyze and report results/findings to stakeholders
• Conduct and participate in internal and external trials; report findings and recommend follow‑up action plans
• Support raw‑material and additive cost‑reduction initiatives
• Develop new QC processes and write detailed procedures based on best practices, training QC employees
• Support and troubleshoot QC/lab equipment (instrument and processing equipment) issues
• Assemble data from manufacturing test results to detect significant trends affecting product quality or cost
• Coordinate problem‑solving activities within manufacturing regarding customer complaints
• Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing problems and recommend corrective action
• Support ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 activities
• Support site safety initiatives
• Attend trade shows and/or conferences
• Stay updated on existing and new material & additive technologies
• Other projects/duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 4+ years of experience in quality, development, and/or engineering roles within a plastic manufacturing environment
• Experience and knowledge of laboratory equipment
• Experience operating both injection‑molding machines and extruders
• Ability to develop test reports based on findings
• Basic knowledge of ISO quality standards and ASTM standards
• Basic knowledge of statistical analysis
• Ability to interpret product specifications, blueprints, and perform testing procedures
• Timely and accurate completion of projects and assignments
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills (documentation, etc.)
• Ability to work in a dynamic, team‑oriented environment
• Ability to manage multiple projects/tasks simultaneously
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.)

The characteristics listed below are representative of the work environment typically encountered by an individual while performing the essential duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to:

• Moving mechanical parts
• Fumes or airborne particles
• Noise levels ranging from normal office noise to loud noise

Employees are required to wear mandatory PPE which may include:

• Hearing protection when on the production floor
• Steel‑toe shoes/boots when on the production floor
• Specific gloves when performing specific tasks
• Eye protection

Ultra‑Poly is a place where you can stop searching for a job, because you actually found a place where you are comfortable and can begin your next career. Take the next step and apply for one of our openings!