Job Summary:
The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL’s core technology.
Core Duties
- Lead fundamental research into TPU/EPU polymer architecture (soft/hard segment ratios, chain extenders, isocyanates) and their effects on optical, thermal, and mechanical performance.
- Correlate polymer chemistry with durability, weathering resistance, and long-term stability.
- Establish lab-scale extrusion and film casting protocols for transparent and optical-grade films.
- Define critical process–performance relationships, including haze, tensile strength, elongation, tear resistance, and environmental durability.
- Optimize formulation and processing parameters for high clarity, low birefringence, and minimal defects.
- Build and maintain a competitive intelligence database of global TPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film performance benchmarks.
- Conduct accelerated aging, optical, and mechanical testing to validate long-term performance targets.
- Translate lab-scale polymer synthesis and extrusion processes to pilot and full production scale.
- Collaborate with process engineers, manufacturing teams, and external partners to ensure successful technology hand-off.
- Identify and protect intellectual property opportunities in TPU/EPU chemistries, extrusion processes, and film applications.
- Stay at the forefront of polyurethane and optical polymer science to drive continuous innovation.
- Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams
- Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process
- Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability
- Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers
- Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility
- Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry
- Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards
- Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs
