Technical Manager – Flexible Slab Polyurethane Foam
Travel: Approximately 80%
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Technical Manager to serve as the subject matter expert for our flexible slab polyurethane foam operations. This is a high-impact role responsible for leading formulation development, supporting manufacturing operations across multiple facilities, and driving continuous improvement in product quality and process performance.
If you have extensive experience in polyurethane foam chemistry, enjoy solving complex manufacturing challenges, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we'd like to hear from you.
What You'll Do
- Develop, test, and implement new flexible slab polyurethane foam formulations.
- Lead research and development initiatives to improve product quality, performance, and manufacturing efficiency.
- Provide technical support and troubleshoot chemical and process-related issues on production pour lines.
- Travel to manufacturing facilities to support:
- New formulation implementation and validation runs
- Production start-ups
- Chemical and mechanical troubleshooting
- Process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives
- Serve as the technical expert for multiple manufacturing locations.
- Provide temporary operational coverage for Pour Line Managers during vacations, leaves of absence, or other staffing needs.
- Partner with Engineering to improve equipment reliability and support predictive maintenance initiatives.
- Work with the Technical Director to develop, standardize, and monitor pour line performance KPIs.
- Analyze production data and recommend improvements that increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product consistency.
- Collaborate with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams to ensure safe, efficient manufacturing processes.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field preferred.
- 7+ years of experience in flexible slab polyurethane foam manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of polyurethane foam chemistry, formulation development, and pour line operations.
- Proven ability to troubleshoot both chemical and mechanical manufacturing issues.
- Experience supporting multiple manufacturing facilities is preferred.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to travel approximately 80% of the time.
What We're Looking For
- Hands-on technical expertise in flexible slab polyurethane foam production.
- A collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring plant teams and solving complex manufacturing challenges.
- Someone who can balance R&D, plant support, and continuous improvement while working independently across multiple locations.
- A proactive problem solver with a strong focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Pay: $135,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person