MFG Innovation Leather Chemist

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

As the Senior Leather Chemist - MADE Manufacturing Innovation, you will be the lead voice working with New Balance's network of leather suppliers, developing scientifically sound material validation strategies. This role will collaborate with several internal innovation and engineering groups by performing fundamental research into tanning effects on leather properties and how that relates to suitability for footwear manufacturing. Finally, you will be at the forefront of pioneering creative solutions, exploring cutting-edge technologies, and collaborating with innovators to drive development and validation for sustainable leather programs.

In this role, you'll be an architect of the future. You will champion and demonstrate scientific excellence, and foster innovative approaches to leather material characterization, all while supporting New Balance's future strategies for material quality validation and sustainability.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Collaborates with internal innovation and engineering groups to redefine leather quality criteria.
• Aids in the development of material handling best-practices for Manufacturing.
• Leads the research and development of novel leather characterization methods which can be deployed to validate new quality criteria for Manufacturing.
• Partner with Industry and Academia to drive fundamental research of structure/property effects of tanning processes.
• Analyze experiments and results analytically via DSC, FTIR, GCMS, etc.
• Works with Tanneries to enact scientifically sound, transparent process checks to ensure first quality leather materials are produced and delivered.
• Collaborates with Sustainability Innovation to investigate environmentally preferred tanning processes such as chrome / water free.
• Stays up-to-date with industry periodicals, publications, technical conferences, trade associations, etc.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• MS in leather chemistry, organic chemistry, chemical engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent industrial experience.
• Minimum 5-10 years theoretical and practical experience in wet-end chemistry.
• Knowledge / experience delivering leather products into the footwear industry.
• Proven track record of leading matrix teams to successful outcomes, translating technical, niche knowledge to a wide audience.
• Ability to travel to between New Balance U.S. sites and preferred Tanneries as needed
• Strong creative problem solving and communication skills.
  

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates and takes affirmative action to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran.