Research Design Engineer - Vernon Hills, United States - Kanaflex Corporation - USA

Description

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic entry level R&D Engineer to join our team at Kanaflex Corporation, a leading manufacturer of PVC hoses and pipes. The ideal R&D Engineer is an innovative individual who will help support our new product development and testing goals, through research and development. The R&D Engineer will be working to provide quantitative research which will assist in the development and creation of new and existing products. Candidate must have a creative mindset and must have an aptitude in engineering and analytical studies.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct research and development activities to design and develop new PVC hose and pipe products, as well as improve existing products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product management, manufacturing, and quality assurance to ensure product specifications and requirements are met.
• Perform material testing and analysis to evaluate the performance, durability, and quality of PVC hose and pipe materials.
• Utilize CAD software to create detailed drawings and models of product designs and collaborate with the engineering team to optimize designs for manufacturing.
• Develop prototypes and conduct testing to validate product designs, including performance testing, pressure testing, and environmental testing.
• Stay updated on industry trends, market demands, and regulatory requirements related to PVC hose and pipe product and incorporate relevant insights into product development efforts.
• Participate in technical discussions and provide technical support to internal teams, customers, and external partners as needed.
• Document research findings, test results, and project progress in technical reports, presentations, and other documentation.
• Assist with quality control processes and help maintain ISO standards.
• Potentially transition to other divisions such as Production Technology, Quality Control, or Production Division in the future.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Strong interest in research and development and a desire to learn about PVC hose and pipe manufacturing.
• Proficiency in CAD software modeling and design (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality work and meeting project deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.

PREFERRED:

• Experience with PVC, Rubber, Urethane, HDPE Hose and/or Pipe. Product quality and compliance control.
• Ability to create and modify 3D models based on provided specifications.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or listen. The employee is regularly required to work at a keyboard and computer. The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

TRAVEL REQUIRED: Yes, per business needs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment includes a general office environment with low noise and may vary with travel.

BENEFITS:

• Medical Insurance and Prescription Drug Coverage
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance ($25,000 company sponsored)
• Disability: Short-Term & Long-Term
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Employer Matching Contribution (100% of the employee's deferral, up to 5% of Employee's Base Salary)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Days
• Potential to receive a discretionary year-end bonus.