Encapsys Analytical Team Manager

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

POSITION TITLE:  Research Services Team Lead

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Research Services Team Lead directs the analytical testing group by coordinating and prioritizing testing activity of the Laboratory Technicians with the support of Lab Facilitator and provides technical direction to the Analytical Chemists.  The incumbent develops new testing methods to support the development of new products and is responsible for the upkeep and repair of all analytical test equipment. He/she provides chemical analysis of: competitor samples, raw materials, as well as the troubleshooting of any other materials. This position identifies, procures, and implements new analytical testing equipment. This position is located at Encapsys Headquarters in Appleton, WI.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Effectively manages Analytical Chemists and Technicians including performance management, career development, and building open and trusting relationships that further high employee performance and engagement.
• Identify, develop, document, validate and implement test methods developed to support development of new products; work with manufacturing to implement these in production as needed.
• Develop and execute method implementation, validation and verification protocols for all newly developed methods, customer supplied methods or compendial methods.
• Support and guide Lab Facilitator to prioritize and direct testing activities for the Analytical Lab technician team while providing development to the Lab Technicians. 
• Provide technical direction and development to the Analytical Chemists.  Provide technical support on new products and processes.
• Provide chemical analysis of products, materials, or contaminates to R&D, Marketing, Sales, Technical Services, and manufacturing for developing clarity in product development, process problems, and material identification.
• Interface with customers to resolve complaints, and to institutionalize new processes and specifications to continually meet their needs.
• Identify equipment needs and opportunities to support new technology development.
• Promote and execute continuous improvement in laboratory operations. Recommend and implement changes to existing tests and processes; maximize efficiencies of existing processes.
• Support cost reduction initiatives in product design, manufacturing process development and purchasing.
• Ensure that activities meet all environmental laws and regulations and provide insight to continually reduce our impact on the environment.

QUALIFICATIONS – REQUIRED

• BS degree in Chemistry, or related field of study required. 
• 5+ years of experience as an Analytical Chemist.
• Experience in leading an Analytical team of Chemists and Technicians, preferred.
• Experience and advanced knowledge regarding the qualification, maintenance, and repair of analytical instruments; HPLC, GC, GC/MS, FTIR, SEM, EDS, TGA, DSC
• Six Sigma/lean knowledge to lead and drive complex problem solving.
• Expertise in analytical method development and validation.
• Ability to interact effectively with customers, management team and production personnel.
• Strong mechanical, troubleshooting and repair skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication, project management, problem solving, creativity, computer, and organizational skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills; patient and tenacious in goal accomplishment.

Milliken is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, including but not limited to lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.