Global Director Research Development Engineering

Global Director Research Development Engineering (R&D & ENG)

Location: Clinton, TN (Onsite)
Travel: Domestic and International Travel Required
Reports To: Director, Business Development

Build the Future of Innovation at Dura-Line

Dura-Line, an Orbia business, is seeking an experienced Global Research & Development (R&D) Director to lead our global R&D organization and drive the next generation of materials, products, and technologies supporting critical infrastructure markets.

This role will provide technical and strategic leadership across product development, materials science, testing, qualification, commercialization, and innovation initiatives. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in polymers and plastics with strong leadership capabilities, business acumen, and a passion for developing high-performing teams.

About Orbia Connectivity Solutions Dura-Line:

Join Dura‑Line, an Orbia Connectivity Solutions business, where we create solutions that connect people and information across the globe. As a leading global manufacturer of conduit products and accessories, Dura‑Line creates the pathways that power connectivity across a wide range of markets worldwide. Quality, safety, and sustainability are at the core of everything we do, with environmentally responsible practices embedded throughout our manufacturing processes. Be part of our shared mission with Orbia to Advance Life Around the World.

What You'll Do

• Lead product, material, formulation, and technology development from concept through commercialization.

• Establish and execute the global R&D strategy aligned to business objectives and growth initiatives.

• Make final technical decisions related to materials, testing, product qualification, specifications, and launch readiness.

• Direct and develop a team of R&D professionals while building technical capability across the organization.

• Manage a global portfolio of innovation projects, balancing priorities, resources, risks, and budgets.

• Partner closely with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Procurement, Commercial, Product Management, and executive leadership.

• Drive product performance improvements, manufacturing scale-up, and process optimization initiatives.

• Collaborate with suppliers, testing laboratories, certification agencies, customers, and industry partners.

• Translate complex technical findings into actionable business recommendations and executive-level communications.

• Assess laboratory capabilities, technical resources, and innovation priorities to establish a roadmap for future growth.

What Success Looks Like

During the first few months, this leader will:

• Build relationships with key stakeholders and assess team capabilities.

• Review the R&D project portfolio, laboratory operations, testing methods, and technical priorities.

• Evaluate critical risks, resource allocation, and development processes.

• Establish a strategic roadmap to strengthen innovation execution and business impact.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Engineering, or related discipline.

• 15+ years of progressive experience in industrial R&D, polymers, materials engineering, product development, extrusion, or related technical leadership roles.

• Experience leading technical teams and developing organizational capability.

• Demonstrated success commercializing new products and technologies.

• Strong expertise in thermoplastics, polyethylene, extrusion, compounding, manufacturing processes, and materials performance.

• Experience utilizing testing methodologies, DOE, statistical analysis, and data-driven decision-making.

• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with senior leadership.

• Experience supporting global operations and international teams.

• Experience in infrastructure, plastics, materials, manufacturing, telecommunications, power, utility, or related industries.

JOIN OUR GROWING TEAM TODAY!

As part of Orbia Connectivity Solutions, Dura-Line offers an exciting work environment and career opportunities in a continuously growing company. We are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse workforce that reflects our global customer base.

Acquisition based on this vacancy is not appreciated and unsolicited applications from third parties will not be accepted.

The compensation for this position will typically range from $151,000–$200,000 annually. The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity.

The compensation package may also include short and long-term incentive compensation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare coverage, a 401(k)-retirement savings plan, paid company holidays, paid vacation time, paid sick time, parental leave, short- and long-term disability leave, tuition reimbursement, and an employee assistance program. At Orbia, we are committed to taking care of our employees and believe in providing comprehensive support so you can thrive at work and home.

Orbia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.