Director, Materials Research & Development

Job Description

YTC America Inc. (YTCA) is the North American corporate research and development center of Yazaki Corporation, Japan. At YTCA, we are dedicated to advancing materials research and pioneering process innovations that enable a circular economy and carbon-neutral technologies, strengthening Yazaki’s product roadmap while creating new business opportunities.

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Director of Materials Research and Development (R&D) to lead our R&D organization. This is a critical leadership role responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of R&D projects in the field of metals, polymers, energy materials, and recycling, overseeing the analytical services department, and shaping the next generation of materials innovations.

The Director will report directly to the President of YTCA and will play a central role in maintaining YTCA’s leadership in materials and process research, intellectual property creation, and technology strategy alignment with Yazaki’s global vision.

Responsibility

• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing R&D team to achieve strategic goals.
• Develop, monitor, and communicate R&D project plans and progress against objectives.
• Continuously improve R&D processes, documentation, and methodologies to ensure efficiency and timely execution.
• Propose and champion new R&D initiatives aligned with corporate strategy, emerging technologies, and market opportunities.
• Foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving excellence.
• Drive intellectual property development, ensuring creation and protection of new patents and know-how.
• Oversee budget planning and resource allocation for the R&D organization.
• Mentor, guide, and evaluate direct reports; implement professional development and training programs across R&D staff.
• Conduct regular performance reviews to support employee growth and ensure departmental success.

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Physics, Material Science, Electrical, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years of experience working in industry, in an innovative science / technology environment, with 5+ years of strong leadership / management experience and a proven track record of academic excellence as evidenced by peer reviewed publications and invited presentations and technical leadership by patents and successfully launched products. To be successful in this role you must enjoy mentoring, demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, and have strong analytical and organizational skills. If you have a passion for excellence in research and development of materials and technology, you may be a strong addition to our leadership team.

YTCA offers a state-of-the-art research facility, competitive compensation, and an excellent benefits package :

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Leave
• Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Voluntary Life Insurance, and Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Plan, and Employer and Safe Harbor Matching Contribution
• Bonus Program
• Educational Tuition Reimbursement
• Relocation Assistance Available

Salary Range : $175,000 – $250,000 – YTCA considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, total compensation and a candidate’s qualifications, key skills, work experience, education, and training.

Apply Now

Qualified candidates are requested to send cover letter and resume to hr@ytca.com . Reply Code : DRD-2025.

YTCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability status, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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