Product Development Engineer (Spring Grove, PA)

Company Description

Pixelle Specialty Solutions™ is the largest specialty paper company in North America, with fully integrated pulp and paper operations in Chillicothe, Ohio, Spring Grove, Pennsylvania, Stevens Point, Wisconsin and a coating operation in Fremont, Ohio. Supported by an experienced product development team, Pixelle excels in designing customized solutions that help customers bring new products to market. With a long history of leadership in the paper industry, Pixelle delivers the most comprehensive portfolio of specialty papers to help you meet today’s challenging demands.

Job Description

Role

The Product Development Engineer will provide technical expertise and support the business by rapidly developing, optimizing, and commercializing new specialty paper products and improving the manufacture of existing products. The position will also plan and conduct experiments and trials in the laboratory, pilot, and mill areas to meet specific targets and timelines, as well as develop new test methods and product specifications. 

Accountabilities

• Develop new products in alignment with Pixelle’s specialty growth strategy. Generate new ideas and intellectual property which leads to new sales and revenues for the business.
• Enhance customer relationships by understanding the details of customer product requirements and ensuring that development efforts are focused on these specific needs.
• Investigates and prepares prototypes, defines product specifications and costs, and coordinates pilot coater and mill trials.
• Support and assist in troubleshooting and problem-solving related to existing and new products manufactured at all Pixelle facilities with primary focus in Spring Grove, PA.
• Provide technical assistance and direction in the implementation of procurement/cost-reduction initiatives.
• Develop and sustain cooperative working relationships within product development, operations, technical, and sales & marketing departments.
• Develop appropriate external contacts to maintain awareness of latest and emerging technologies in areas applicable to existing or future businesses.
• Demonstrate strong understanding of industry, markets, and technology trends; identifying threats, opportunities, and ensuring business issues are addressed.
• Track and communicate progress of projects using project management method, and document results appropriately. Participate as a team member in cross-functional product development teams.
• Visit customers, as required.

Qualifications

• Degree in paper science, chemical engineering, or related technical disciplines.
• Five plus (5+) years of experience; substitution of directly relevant work experience for education.
• Experience with silicone release and other specialty paper coatings, a plus.
• Have knowledge of coating processes, materials, and applications.
• Prioritize and manage multiple projects to meet deadlines.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and organizational skills.
• Communicate well, both written and verbal, including customer interaction skills.

Additional Information

Competitive healthcare benefit package and 401K match.