Principal Researcher - Building Science

Job Description

Job Description

USG is an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions. For over 120 years, Chicago-based USG has developed award-winning wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing, and roofing products that enable customers to build outstanding spaces where people live, work, and play. With over 8,700 employees across North America and operations around the world, we are steadfastly committed to our core values : safety, innovation, quality, integrity, service, diversity, and efficiency.

We’re big enough that our professionals have the resources to make a difference, yet small enough that you’re not just a number. You’ll work on key initiatives and build strong relationships across the company that will position USG for growth into the future.

USG offers work-life balance, specialist and general / managerial career paths, promotion from within, exceptional benefits, and incredible long-term career opportunities for the right professional. Each year, we have hundreds of employees who celebrate milestone anniversaries with us.

Position Description : ISBSL Principal Researcher – Building Science

A senior position within the R&D function as part of the Innovation Services and Building Sciences Lab (ISBSL) based at USG’s Corporate Innovation Center in Libertyville, IL. The ISBSL is responsible for maintenance and continuous improvement of existing USG systems, and to develop new systems that will address unmet customer needs and drive profitable growth for USG.

We are seeking an experienced professional and subject matter expert to drive measurable, positive impacts on USG’s business interests. This position functions as a primary source of architectural and building systems technical knowledge for the field sales staff and customers, and is the coordinator and facilitator for applicable research and development projects for the assigned areas of responsibility.

In this role, responsibilities will include the ability to coordinate the development and implementation of training programs (internal & external), technical content of product literature, and other related projects. Develop and maintain relationships with key customers and appropriate internal cross functional areas including sales, marketing, customer service, and others. These relationships will be the foundation for exchanging information regarding basic product related needs, general market dynamics, and competitive intelligence. Analyze company sales, market & industry trends, and competition. Coordinate projects with other researchers within ISBSL. Develop and maintain industry leading technical awareness of USG’s products; internally present to sales and respond to product related informational requests from internal and external sources. Externally, participate by attending and presenting at industry trade shows and associations.

Knowledge of North American construction practices is a requirement. Experience in engineering consultancy is a plus. Proven ability to be a team player. Self-starter with good organizational and project management skills; must be able to quickly analyze technical issues. Travel required. Strong verbal and written communication skills with ability to present to all levels internally and externally. Excellent written and oral communication skills are a must.

Qualifications :

• Degree in Architecture or Engineering; Advanced Degree is a plus
• 15+ years of experience with strong analytical skills.
• Understanding of heat, moisture, air transfer in various building envelopes.
• Strong problem-solving skills to create customer-centric and practical solutions, strong project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
• Good working knowledge of the Building Code and acceptance process
• Conduct activities in a safe manner, observing all safety and environmental regulations.
• Up to 25% travel might be needed.
• Position midpoint may be adjusted based on the skills and experience of the candidate.

Rate of pay may be adjusted based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.

USG employees enjoy a number of benefit options for themselves and their families. These include two medical insurance options, as well as vision and dental coverage. The cost of these optional programs varies based on coverage level - employees generally pay 25% of the monthly premium cost, USG pays the rest. These coverage options are offered on the first day of employment with no waiting period.

Additionally, USG employees enjoy both a 401(k) Investment Plan with company match and a pension plan. Beyond these main features, employees may also choose from a number of additional programs like life insurance, accident insurance, legal insurance, even pet insurance, just to name a few. USG also offers Quarterly (hourly) / Annual (salary) bonus potential for all employees based on performance metrics tied to safety, quality, and productivity. USG also provides employees with paid time off and paid holidays.

Since 1902, Chicago-based USG has been a leader in producing innovative, award-winning products and systems to build everything from major commercial developments and residential housing to home improvements. USG's employees are committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and quality in everything we do. Our steadfast commitment to the company's core business values – innovation, quality, integrity, service, diversity, efficiency and safety – have helped us become the company we are today.

EOE including disability / veteran