Lead, R&D - E2E Complex Projects, Process
$141,500–$176,900 year
On-siteGlenview, Illinois, United States
Job Summary
Lead the full R&D lifecycle for process initiatives, spanning ideation, feasibility, process design, modeling, validation, pilot trials, scale-up, and handover to manufacturing. Translate consumer and business requirements into fit-for-purpose manufacturing processes while serving as the technical integrator across process design and manufacturing capability. Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to assess process capability, equipment fit, and scale-up risks, leading pilot runs and first-time-right trials to ensure smooth transitions to full-scale production. Identify and mitigate technical risks related to process robustness, variability, and system interactions, while building integrated project plans and driving governance reviews. Mentor junior scientists and engineers to strengthen technical project execution within the team.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related discipline
- Minimum 11 years of progressive experience in R&D product and process development within consumer goods, food and beverage, or similar industries
- Demonstrated experience leading end-to-end product and process development programs, from concept through commercialization
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, scale-up, and industrialization
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical teams and influence without authority
- Solid project leadership skills, including planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Experience leading complex, multi-site or global product launches
- Hands-on experience with pilot plants, process trials, and first commercial production runs
- Background in process optimization, yield improvement, or manufacturing continuous improvement
Desired Qualifications
- Proficiency with project tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Excel)
- ERP experience (e.g., SAP)
- Project management certification (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2)
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