Lab Process Engineer

This is a Lab Process Engineer role on the Golf Ball R&D team that will be responsible for developing and evaluating new manufacturing processes and materials. They will also assist in the manufacturing of prototypes for mechanical and player testing. This role will utilize polymer processing experience to conduct a wide variety of complex tasks in the development of new processes, prototypes, fixturing and tooling. They will provide relevant input on process improvements in preparation for production trials, and contribute to the creative component of developing innovative processes that have the potential to change the performance of a golf ball.

Essential Functions and Key Responsibilities:

• Lead development and optimization of golf ball manufacturing processes including injection/compression molding as well as coating and stamping applications.

• Lead golf ball prototyping activities in the R&D lab and evaluate opportunities for process capabilities and throughput improvements.

• Drive activities associated with tooling/equipment design and develop expertise in the relationship between golf ball tooling, processes, and performance.

• Work with multi-disciplinary teams to fully define project requirements, drive development or problem-solving activities, and deliver fully qualified solutions. Manage schedules for critical phases of research and development.

• Be resourceful and manage inside resources and outside vendors to produce prototype components or procure new equipment or tooling within a defined time frame and budget. Work with resources to improve quality, efficiency, and productivity.

• Define, launch, track, and evaluate the quality of prototypes for new designs, materials, concepts and processes and ensure they are transferred to product development and engineering teams through SOPs and specifications.

• Analyze test results, prototypes, manufacturing trials and provide feedback in the form of reports and/or presentations to interested parties so that improvements/enhancements can be made to materials/processes.

• Ensure accurate documents/specifications/SOPs are generated for new materials and processes and that documents are transferred to development, engineering and manufacturing groups.

• Develop an understanding of existing patent landscape surrounding area of expertise. Fully support patent activity to protect intellectual property and evaluate new designs in terms of patentability or infringement.

• Performs other related duties and assignments as required.

Knowledge and Skills Requirements:

• Strong understanding of thermoplastic/thermoset polymers and manufacturing processes. Experience developing products utilizing polymer materials (rubber, ionomer, polyurethane, and thermoplastics/TPUs) preferred.

• Strong understanding of relationship between polymer application processes and material performance.

• Working knowledge of manufacturing methods e.g. injection molding, machining, compression molding, polyurethane casting and coating techniques.

• Knowledge and some experience in Design of Experiments (DOE). Experience with designing and setting up experiments, various data acquisition methods, statistical analysis and report writing.

• Knowledge of golf principles, products, and rules preferred. Strong interest in sports equipment technology and associated terminology is a plus.

• Proven ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

• Proficient in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

• Strong English written and verbal communication skills and ability to interact with all levels.

• Ability to accurately assess talent and effectively motivate and influence others to build skills, efficiently accomplish tasks, and develop leading edge processes.

Education, Work Experience, and Professional Certifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Materials, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, or other related field required.
• 1-3 years of experience in related role (Research & Development or Production environment with exposure to processing polymeric materials)
• R&D Lab prototyping or production experience is a plus

Work Environment / Physical Requirements:

• Majority of time spent in a lab environment

• Normal office conditions with extensive computer and phone usage

• Ability to work extended hours as necessary.

• Able to work efficiently and accurately in an atmosphere of frequent interruption

• Light physical effort equal to frequent lifting or moving of lightweight materials

• Occasional travel may be required

TaylorMade is a performance driven organization and our total rewards approach to compensation is designed to support this. We consider many factors in determining base compensation, including position scope, job related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and work location. The expected annual base pay range for this position is $73,000 - $78,000. Additional benefits, such as health & wellness, performance bonuses, product discounts, holidays, paid time off, etc. may also be offered in accordance with our plans.

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TaylorMade Golf Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religious creed, color, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance, or regulation.