R&D Manager – Polymer Compounding

About the role

The R&D Manager – Polymer Compounding leads the Research & Development function for polymer compounds and engineered plastic materials. The role covers developing innovative formulations, improving existing products, managing technical projects and supporting customer-specific development needs while keeping to quality and industry standards. The position is based in Pune (Hinjewadi).

Key responsibilities

• Lead R&D activities for polymer compounding products and develop product innovation strategies aligned with business goals.
• Develop new polymer compounds, masterbatches and customised formulations, optimise them for performance, processability and cost, and run trials, validation studies and scale-up.
• Research new materials, additives, fillers and processing technologies, monitor market trends and support sustainable and advanced material initiatives.
• Manage R&D projects from concept to commercialisation and coordinate with production, quality, procurement and sales teams.
• Mentor junior R&D staff and lab technicians.
• Ensure compliance with IATF, ISO and NABL standards, maintain technical documentation and test reports, and support audits, certifications and customer quality requirements.
• Provide technical support to customers and internal stakeholders, take part in customer meetings and product approvals, and support business development with technical presentations.

Required profile

• B.E./B.Tech/M.Tech in Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• 8-10 years of experience in polymer compounding R&D.
• Experience in product development and technical troubleshooting preferred.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of engineering plastics, additives, fillers and polymer processing.
• Knowledge of IATF, ISO and NABL standards.