XPEL Inc.
Principal R&D Engineer - TPU Chemistry and Processing
XPEL Inc., San Antonio, Texas, United States, 78208
Principal R&D Engineer - TPU Chemistry and Processing page is loaded## Principal R&D Engineer - TPU Chemistry and Processinglocations:
San Antonio, TXtime type:
Full timeposted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition id:
R-101261**Job Summary:**The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL’s core technology.**Job Description:****Core Duties** * Lead fundamental research into TPU/EPU polymer architecture (soft/hard segment ratios, chain extenders, isocyanates) and their effects on optical, thermal, and mechanical performance.* Correlate polymer chemistry with durability, weathering resistance, and long-term stability.* Establish lab-scale extrusion and film casting protocols for transparent and optical-grade films.* Define critical process–performance relationships, including haze, tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance, and environmental durability.* Optimize formulation and processing parameters for high clarity, low birefringence, and minimal defects.* Build and maintain a competitive intelligence database of global TPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film performance benchmarks.* Conduct accelerated aging, optical, and mechanical testing to validate long-term performance targets.* Translate lab-scale polymer synthesis and extrusion processes to pilot and full production scale.* Collaborate with process engineers, manufacturing teams, and external partners to ensure successful technology hand-off.* Identify and protect intellectual property opportunities in TPU/EPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film applications.* Stay at the forefront of polyurethane and optical polymer science to drive continuous innovation.* Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams* Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process* Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability* Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers* Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility* Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry* Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards* Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs* Other duties as assigned**Basic Qualifications** * B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience* Strong background in polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, and optical polymer systems.* Proven hands-on experience with TPU/EPU synthesis, film extrusion, and coating processes.* In-depth knowledge of structure–property mapping for polyurethane materials.* Strong understanding of processing variables (temperature, shear, residence time) and their effects on polymer morphology and film performance.* Proficiency with optical and mechanical testing: haze, gloss, tensile, elongation, modulus, durability, and weatherability.* Familiarity with additives (stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers) and their influence on film performance.* Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.* Track record of patent generation and/or publications in polyurethane or optical polymer fields.* Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization* Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability* Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis* Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders* Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership* In-office role **Desired Qualifications** * Advanced Degree preferredXPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.locations:
San Antonio, TXtime type:
Full timeposted on:
Posted Today #J-18808-Ljbffr
San Antonio, TXtime type:
Full timeposted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition id:
R-101261**Job Summary:**The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL’s core technology.**Job Description:****Core Duties** * Lead fundamental research into TPU/EPU polymer architecture (soft/hard segment ratios, chain extenders, isocyanates) and their effects on optical, thermal, and mechanical performance.* Correlate polymer chemistry with durability, weathering resistance, and long-term stability.* Establish lab-scale extrusion and film casting protocols for transparent and optical-grade films.* Define critical process–performance relationships, including haze, tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance, and environmental durability.* Optimize formulation and processing parameters for high clarity, low birefringence, and minimal defects.* Build and maintain a competitive intelligence database of global TPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film performance benchmarks.* Conduct accelerated aging, optical, and mechanical testing to validate long-term performance targets.* Translate lab-scale polymer synthesis and extrusion processes to pilot and full production scale.* Collaborate with process engineers, manufacturing teams, and external partners to ensure successful technology hand-off.* Identify and protect intellectual property opportunities in TPU/EPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film applications.* Stay at the forefront of polyurethane and optical polymer science to drive continuous innovation.* Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams* Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process* Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability* Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers* Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility* Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry* Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards* Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs* Other duties as assigned**Basic Qualifications** * B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience* Strong background in polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, and optical polymer systems.* Proven hands-on experience with TPU/EPU synthesis, film extrusion, and coating processes.* In-depth knowledge of structure–property mapping for polyurethane materials.* Strong understanding of processing variables (temperature, shear, residence time) and their effects on polymer morphology and film performance.* Proficiency with optical and mechanical testing: haze, gloss, tensile, elongation, modulus, durability, and weatherability.* Familiarity with additives (stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers) and their influence on film performance.* Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.* Track record of patent generation and/or publications in polyurethane or optical polymer fields.* Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization* Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability* Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis* Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders* Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership* In-office role **Desired Qualifications** * Advanced Degree preferredXPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.locations:
San Antonio, TXtime type:
Full timeposted on:
Posted Today #J-18808-Ljbffr