Director, Glass Research & Development - SOLARCYCLE, Inc

About the role

As the head of the Glass R&D activities in Arizona, you will report directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and play a crucial role in driving innovation and leading research projects focused on solar glass manufacturing and recycling. This position requires glass expertise and the ideal candidate will provide strategic direction, manage a team of engineers, and spearhead the development of our glass department and new rolled glass manufacturing plant.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee R&D projects related to glass manufacturing.
• Direct and oversee R&D projects related to solar glass recycling and purity.
• Manage a team of engineers and technicians and foster a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Define and execute the research roadmap aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
• Communicate research findings, project updates, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
• Participate in the writing of product disclosure documents to drive innovation and increase our patent portfolio.
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and emerging technologies relevant to solar glass manufacturing and recycling. 

Professional Competencies:

• Leadership and Strategy:
  • Provide visionary leadership and strategic guidance for the R&D department.
  • Define and execute the research roadmap aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
  • Stay updated with the latest industry trends and emerging relevant technologies
• Research and Development:
  • Direct and oversee R&D projects related to solar glass manufacturing, purity, properties, and recycling.
  • Build and manage a team of engineers and technicians and foster a collaborative and innovative research environment.
  • Have a good understanding of laboratory-based research, including bench-scale experiments, and instrumental analysis to assist your team in their research.
  • Assist with setting up a new state-of-the-art laboratory with equipment related to your research. Manage the pilot lines capable of producing large glass sheets (e.g. 2m x 2m) for optical and mechanical testing.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Operations, Engineering, and Quality Assurance, to ensure seamless integration of R&D projects.
  • Communicate research findings, project updates, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
  • Foster strong relationships with external partners, academia, and industry experts to leverage their expertise and resources.
• Compliance and Safety:
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, safety protocols, and ethical standards in all research activities.
  • Promote a culture of safety, responsibility, and environmental sustainability within the R&D department.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geology, or a related field. A Ph.D. is desirable but not necessary.
• Extensive experience (at least 5-10 years) in research and development, preferably in solar glass, rolled glass, or related fields.
• Strong background in the science of glass, melt, virtuous, and amorphous materials.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing R&D projects from conception to implementation.Understanding of intellectual property and patents.
• Experience in managing a team of engineers, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Proficient in laboratory-based research methodologies, instrumental analysis, and recovery methods used for assessing relevant glass properties (optical, mechanical, etc.).
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong leadership abilities, with a strategic mindset and the ability to drive innovation and change.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and evolving environment.

Note: This position is based in Phoenix, AZ, USA. Relocation to Phoenix or a willingness to relocate is required. Remote work before moving for a few months can be negotiated.