Specialized Technology Resources, Inc. (STR), a wholly owned subsidiary of STR Holdings, stabilizing polymers since 1944, has redefined the conventional understanding of photothermal degradation, and used this knowledge to engineer the most stable photovoltaic (PV) adhesive encapsulants in the photovoltaic-solar module business. The STR encapsulant product line named Photocap® is the global industry standard for ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and thermoplastic encapsulants and offers the highest adhesion on glass, metal and other module substrates. Photocap® encapsulants’ attributes range from standard cure to fast cure in lamination cycles, thermoplastic moisture barriers, and all-in-one back sheet designs. Photocap® encapsulants are the leading environmental protection package for silicon-wafer-based technology and thin film solar panels.

POSITION SUMMARY

Working under general supervision, coordinate and support global research and product development efforts of polymer-based encapsulant and packaging materials for use in photovoltaic module products (i.e., solar panels). The responsibilities of this position will include materials research, testing, application science, formulation and prototyping work using polymer processing equipment, close collaboration with internal and external resources including customers and vendors, technical service, and limited travel.

RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES

Coordinate and manage research and development efforts

§         Polymer material preparation and prototyping using mill rolls, compression molding equipment, small-scale extruders, etc.

§         Material characterization and testing

§         Collaboration with suppliers and customers in the development of novel materials

§         Maintain some characterization equipment

§         Maintain technical knowledge current with industry changes and trends

Support manufacturing process development efforts

§       Work with process engineers in both domestic and international facilities in evaluating new and/or modified extrusion manufacturing processes

§         Characterize and define process/material property relationships

Customer technical service

§         Material application development and troubleshooting with customers

§      Handle technical inquiries from new and existing customers

§         Integral member of global technical service team

Other

§         Prepare papers for conferences and publications

§         Orally present technical information to customers and at conferences

§         Produce internal project status reports to management

§         Assist in writing R&D contract proposals

§         Maintain technical knowledge current with industry trends and changes

§         Provide input through individual and team efforts to meet department technical and financial objectives.

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION REQUIRED

Bachelors in chemistry (polymer experience preferred), chemical engineering (polymer experience preferred), or polymer science required. 0-5 years experience.  Prefer doctorate in chemistry (polymer experience preferred), chemical engineering (polymer experience preferred), or polymer science.

BENEFITS

We recognize people as our most valuable asset. Our competitive salary and benefits package includes a matching 401k plan with profit sharing, reimbursement for business expenses, dental insurance, medical insurance, disability benefits, prescription drug coverage, pre-tax accounts for health care, life insurance, paid sick time, casual dress, paid company holidays, tuition reimbursement and paid vacations.