Research & Support Engineer (Principal Engineer) at Westlake

Longview, Texas, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Chemicals, PolymersIndustries

Requirements

Experience and technical knowledge in PE resins, including development, optimization, characterization, resin design, applications, CTQs, and manufacturing
Expertise in polymer and polymer performance characterization (e.g., rheology, structure & morphology, properties)
Ability to work independently as a principal investigator and/or direct others as a project leader
High level of expertise and judgment to analyze data, plan, and execute projects
Ability to respond to complex technical problems and work with stakeholders (TS&D, Process & Catalyst Support, Commercial, Manufacturing, customers)
Strong communication skills, including reports, presentations, and updates to management and stakeholders
Capability to handle multiple projects, contribute ideas, mentor, coach, or instruct colleagues and less-experienced researchers
Experience in product development, plant & customer support (problem-solving, optimization, competitive analysis), and new innovation
Current knowledge of relevant field (implied in maintaining up-to-date capabilities)

Responsibilities

Provide direct support and troubleshooting for polymer & polymer performance characterization (e.g., rheology, structure & morphology, properties) for product development, plant & customer support, and new innovation
Provide support & direction to improve resins and keep Analytical & Characterization capabilities up-to-date for product development, plant & customer support, and new innovation
Act as principal investigator to determine & conduct laboratory experiments and tests (internally & externally) required by stakeholder needs
Evaluate and report results of experiments and make recommendations for appropriate actions
Lead projects or assist in research, planning, experiments, data collection, and evaluation of information
Work with key stakeholders (TS&D, Commercial, Manufacturing, etc.) to resolve problems and identify opportunities that add value for the business
Contribute as a member of the Technology Leadership Team
Use acquired knowledge & expertise to identify & solve problems, including defining vague problems for investigation and resolution
Act as a team member to develop and maintain key relationships, ensure objectives, projects, and resources focus on PE business needs and goals
Communicate via reports, presentations, and other updates; ensure all stakeholders are informed
Set an example for others, and mentor, coach, or instruct colleagues and less-experienced researchers

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

RheologyPolymer CharacterizationResin DesignPE ResinsProduct DevelopmentProcess OptimizationData AnalysisProject LeadershipTechnical CommunicationProblem Solving

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary for this Research & Support Engineer position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Is this a remote position or does it require working in an office?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What key skills and expertise are required for the Principal Engineer role?

The role requires expertise in polymer and polymer performance characterization such as rheology, structure & morphology, and properties, along with knowledge of PE resins including resin design, applications, CTQs, and manufacturing. Candidates need to work independently as a principal investigator, direct others as a project leader, analyze data, and handle complex technical problems.

What is the company culture like at Westlake?

Westlake offers an entrepreneurial environment where employees work together to enhance peoples' lives through products and community presence. The role involves collaboration with labs, stakeholders, and mentoring colleagues.

What makes a strong candidate for this Principal Engineer position?

Strong candidates are experienced researchers with expertise in PE resins and polymer characterization who can work independently, lead projects, communicate effectively with stakeholders and management, handle multiple projects, and mentor others.