Product/Process Development Manager

Job Purpose

To lead development, evaluation and implementation of new and existing product and process technologies at various locations throughout LP’s manufacturing facilities, accelerating the implementation and commercialization of various activities which include process development and control, product development, cost reduction, quality improvement and optimization of raw materials.

We’d love to meet you if…

… you’re energized by big challenges and creating a plan to meet the challenge

… you enjoy working with others to deliver great work

… you’re innovative and looking for a values-driven, positive culture and environment

In this position you will have the opportunity to:

• Identify, develop, and lead implementation of new and modifications to existing product and process technologies to improve operational efficiency, product quality and cost, and raw material quality and cost

• Organize and lead teams; also provide technical support to existing project leaders on the implementation of product and process development

• Identify and prioritize future research and development opportunities in new products, raw material optimizations and evaluations, new processes, quality enhancements, cost reduction, product line extensions and productivity.

• Develop and manage implementation strategies that minimize redundancy, emphasize standardization and maximize efficiency across all manufacturing units, including serving as on-site technical resources.

• Ensure effective communications and working relations at the interfaces between Engineering, R&D, Q&T, Environmental, IT, and Manufacturing.

• Communicate status of development activities to appropriate parties. Implement best practice.

• Participate in the selection and evaluation of new equipment for existing facilities. Participate as a member of project management teams for the startup of new facilities.

• Plan and manage benchmarking and other competitive research activities; analyze and communicate results.

• Provide technical assistance to Regional Quality and Technical Managers and Warranty and Claims as needed.

• Assume responsibility for personal safety and for the safety performance of all personnel, projects, and programs managed

• Perform all duties in accordance with safety rules and regulations

• Perform other duties as necessary

• Requires a flexible schedule

What do I need to be successful?

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in manufacturing and quality assurance, preferably focused in engineered wood products and/or liquid coatings, or any equivalent combination of experience and training that demonstrates the ability to perform responsibilities of this position

• Expertise in general scientific research practices, statistical analysis of data, full-scale and lab-scale product manufacturing technology, equipment, process operating parameters and product attributes

• Ability to gather and analyze data and develop conclusions and recommendations from that information.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills; interpersonal skills, people development, team building, leadership skills, etc.

• Solid understanding and application of effective project management methods.

• Excellent business acumen and technical judgment

• Knowledge of and understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.

• Skill in identifying, developing, and delivering technical training

• Ability to represent LP and interact effectively with customers, suppliers, and third parties.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Forest Products, Engineering, Wood Science, Chemistry or related field is required.

• ASQ Certification, Lean Six Sigma Training, or other applicable training desirable.

Work Environment

• Office, lab and manufacturing plant environments

• Moderate to heavy travel required