A world leader in insect screening and performance fabrics, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. The company fosters a family-oriented work environment where collaboration, respect, and long-term growth are part of everyday operations.
Job Summary :
The R&D Sustainability Strategist will lead technical and strategic initiatives focused on the transition from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) to more sustainable polyethylene-based (PE) materials within product design, manufacturing, and supply chain operations.
This role bridges research, innovation, and sustainability , ensuring that material transitions support environmental goals, maintain product performance, and meet regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
1. Material Research & Development
- Evaluate the mechanical, chemical, and environmental properties of PVC and polyethylene alternatives.
- Develop and test PE-based formulations to match or exceed the performance of existing PVC applications.
- Collaborate with lab teams on compounding, extrusion, and processing trials.
- Identify recyclable and bio-based polyethylene options that align with sustainability targets.
2. Sustainability Strategy & Implementation
Lead the transition strategy from PVC to PE across products, balancing performance, cost, and environmental impact.Conduct life-cycle assessments (LCA) and carbon footprint analyses to quantify improvements.Develop sustainability benchmarks and KPIs for material performance and recyclability.Support compliance with environmental and safety regulations (REACH, RoHS, EPA, etc.).3. Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with product development, procurement, and manufacturing teams to ensure material compatibility and scalability.Work closely with suppliers to source sustainable polyethylene resins and additives.Communicate progress, findings, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.4. Innovation & Continuous Improvement
Monitor global trends and emerging technologies in polymer sustainability.Identify opportunities to incorporate circular economy principles and closed-loop recycling into operations.Drive continuous improvement projects to reduce waste, improve recyclability, and optimize resource use.Qualifications
Bachelors or Masters degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Sustainability, or related field.5+ years of experience in polymer R&D, materials engineering, or sustainability strategy.Strong technical knowledge of PVC and polyethylene chemistry, processing, and performance characteristics.Proven experience leading material transition or substitution projects.Familiarity with LCA tools, sustainability metrics, and regulatory standards.Excellent communication and project management skills.Preferred
Experience in extrusion, injection molding, or film applications.Background in bio-based or recycled polymers.Demonstrated ability to align R&D innovation with corporate sustainability goals.Key Competencies
Strategic thinking and systems perspectiveStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsCollaboration and stakeholder engagementCommitment to innovation and environmental stewardship