Application Development Representative

Description

Eastman Chemical Company is seeking an experienced Filter Products Application Development Representative to execute portfolios of innovative product solutions, extending beyond acetate tow, for Eastman's Filter Products customers. Developments addressing sustainability concerns and needs within the reduced risk product space are of particular importance.  Success in this role requires the ability to gather and apply insights on the changing landscape across the tobacco industry and within specific customer organizations, as well as how materials within Eastman's broad product portfolio can be utilized to grow sales to Fibers customers. This position is located onsite at our headquarters in Kingsport, TN.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support market-facing technical projects; define technical milestones, risks and mitigation plans and enable advancement of projects led by others.
• Design and execute application- and formulation-specific experiments to develop fundamental understanding of filter tow applications to processing performance and end-use properties.
• Independently manage relationships within large multi-national customers, helping to both identify problems and coordinate solutions.
• Understand and respond to pending regulatory concerns and trends such that Eastman maintains a strong industry position.
• Guide improvement of Eastman's laboratory capabilities to support our objectives.
• Support pilot and scale up trials; troubleshoot processing challenges and recommend robust, safe operating conditions and continual improvements.
• Create and protect innovative solutions via patent disclosures and support intellectual property activities.
• Utilize oral and written communication to influence choices of internal and external partners as well as report technical findings.
• Grow Eastman's credibility as an innovator through participation in industry organizations, including as a committee member and conference presenter.
• Apply and promote rigorous safety and environmental practices: lead hazard assessments, ensure compliant handling and disposal of materials, and support other safety programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Polymer Science/Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related technical field required, PhD preferred.
• 5+ years industry experience required. Experience translating polymer formulation fundamentals into commercial scale products highly preferred.
• Demonstrated hands on experience with polymer testing, filter process, and result interpretation.
• Combination of high technical skillset and relational aptitude is a necessity.
• Strong understanding of polymer structure–property relationships and how formulation and processing influence end use properties.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present technical results to cross functional teams and customers.
• Proven commitment to safety and environmental compliance.

Preferred Qualifications (not required)

• Experience in design, processability, and structure-properties of cellulose esters.
• Track record of patent filings or published technical reports or journal articles.
• Experience running customer application trials and translating feedback into product designs.
• Experience within multiple technical, customer support, and business functions.

Other information: 

• Occasional travel (up to 15%) may be required