Role Purpose: My client, a global Tier 1 automotive supplier or polyurethane foam materials is looking for a highly motivated Textile / Materials Engineer that will develop and mature our database, based on internal and external benchmarking for trim materials (leather, fabric, urethane, vinyl, carpet, etc..) and their applications. The Textile / Materials Engineer will also work with the product engineering team and identify materials for specific customer applications. In addition, the Textile Materials Engineer will work directly with engineering and purchasing to validate new supplier materials and cost reduction initiatives. Responsibilities:
Responsible for benchmarking and developing a material database, including interactions during lamination where applicable.
Identifies, selects, and recommends materials based on customer specifications.
Direct work with OEM customers on construction drawing approvals
Support the establishment of specifications for selected materials.
Observes or participates in product testing, development and manufacturing process as appropriate.
Observes and/or participates in root cause analysis in the event of a materials failure.
Create best practices and standardization for material selection and lamination.
Help to root cause warranty and in field failures related to materials.
Aid in manufacturing reviews to review against best practices and standards.
Provide technical support during quoting of lamination programs
Engages with plant and supplier quality assurance teams to collect, analyze, and organize data for internal and external reviews.
Facilitate and lead meetings with cross functional teams as needed.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or related STEM degree highly preferred
At least five years of relevant experience as a materials engineer, textile or process engineer
Experience in vinyl, synthetic and non-synthetic materials
Additional Qualifications – Technical or Functional Competency Requirements
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to fully understand customers’ requirements and complex problems.
Ability to gain trust and working relationships with OEM customers
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a development team.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software and software used in product testing and documentation.