Technical R&D Director; Plastics​/Extrusion exp. req. Relo to WI

Head of R&D/Technical Director - Plastics/Extrusion exp. req.

Location:

Elkhorn, WI – up to $20K Relocation Assistance Available!

Salary: $150,000 - $170,000 + Annual Performance Bonus + Benefits

Job Type: Full-Time

Typical

Hours:

Mon - Fri, 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM (Flexible)

Start Date:

ASAP

Sponsorship is not available

Relocation Assistance is available

Our client, a well-established manufacturing company, is seeking a Technical R&D Director to lead product innovation and technical development efforts. With an average employee tenure exceeding 10 years, the organization offers a stable, collaborative environment where technical expertise is valued and long-term careers are built. This hands-on individual contributor role focuses on new product development, process optimization, and technical feasibility, allowing you to make a direct impact without managing a team.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in laminating, coatings, and specialty material processing, with a proven ability to move concepts from lab validation to full-scale production. You will play a pivotal role in developing high-performance materials for demanding industrial applications where durability, precision, and reliability are essential. This opportunity offers autonomy and meaningful influence within a long-standing organization committed to product excellence and continuous improvement.

• Lead new product development from feasibility assessment through pilot and production scale
• Conduct technical evaluations and trials for new product initiatives
• Collaborate with suppliers to assess material capabilities and specifications
• Develop, audit, and refine process specifications to ensure consistent and reliable production
• Redesign existing products to reduce cost, improve performance, or enhance customer satisfaction
• Participate in cross-functional meetings with Production, Materials, Quality, and Sales
• Manage trial requests, technical validations, and data documentation
• Support chemical and hazardous material management
• Assist in planning and evaluating departmental budgets, project goals, and technical objectives
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant R&D lab environment

• 5+ years in a technical role within plastics manufacturing required
• Hands-on experience with laminating processes (solvent-based, solventless, and/or water-based coatings) required
• Experience with extrusion or slitting equipment required