Technical Manager I of Production Chemistry

Who we are:

You know us. You just didn't know it. WACKER is a global chemical manufacturer that prides itself on "Creating Tomorrow's Solutions". WACKER materials are so versatile and adaptable, they have virtually unlimited applications just about anywhere imaginable, making WACKER an integral part of daily life. Whether it's protecting buildings from the elements, a tube of toothpaste, a cell phone, airbags, or cosmetics, people from all over the world come into contact each day with our products and achievements. We are looking for capable, innovative, and enthusiastic achievers to join our team and grow with us. We are currently seeking a Technical Manager I of Production Chemistryfor our site in Charleston, TN.

What you will do:

The Technical Manager I of Production Chemistry will lead the Process Chemist efforts to improve the production processes so that we can safely and reliably produce quality products. This position is the primary technical liaison between the Business Teams and Operations. Success in this position will result in enhancement of the overall organization to support higher growth rates of the business while improving our quality, efficiencies, cost position and productivity. This position will lead root cause analysis and corrective actions related to product quality and performance, as well as proactively and independently support the business by initiating projects, generating data, and effectively communicating results for enhancement of production processes. The Technical Manager will directly interact with both internal and external organizations as necessary in support of team and leadership targets, plus support product development and/or select technical service in collaboration with the Business Team.

• Continuous improvement of the processes regarding optimize cycle time, yields, variation reduction, etc. 25% of time.
• Oversight of Root Cause and Corrective action system for all quality deviations leading to optimization of material formulations / processes, 20% of time
• Work with global HDK product development and Technology Management group, visit other Wacker locations as needed for technical exchange (developments, complaints, FTPR, 8D, etc.), 20% of time.
• Globalization of products and processes and scale up activities. Percent (%) of time: 15%
• Be in charge as Product Steward for HDK related inquiries, mostly related but not limited to EHSS topics, 10% of time.
• Develop, supervise and train laboratory personnel to grow in the Wacker Technology Management/Operations organization, 10% of time.

What we need from you:

• Bachelor's degree in Polymer or Material Science, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering; Master's or PhD in Polymer or Material Science, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, preferred.
• 8+ years of technical or operations experience in manufacturing industry
• 3-5 years of experience in application technology, formulation work, chemical processing or Technical Service/Marketing Manager experience in related chemistry and applications
• 1-2 years supervisory experience of lab personnel
• Track record of successful problem-solving projects. Development of products and/or applications that support customer/business team goals.
• Experience in leading and influencing teams on projects without having functional reporting responsibility.
• Understand production processes and relate to root cause analysis and corrective action or related industry experience as Technical Service Manager
• Experience / proven successes with product development and project management, showing leadership in propose and develop ideas / solutions to expand our business.
• Familiar with technologies / equipment of application testing and analysis, solid understanding of rheology and rheology testing
• Excellent interpersonal skills to interact with diverse team members and customers.
• Ability to manage, lead, and grow lab personnel.
• High level communication skills (listening, speaking, writing, presenting),

• Compensation and Incentive plans
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance effective day 1
• Paid Time Off in addition to personal days and holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Wellbeing fund
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements
• 401(k) with company match
• Education Assistance Program
• Career development and advancement opportunities
• Support for Community Involvement