R&D Engineer * Carpet Technology Position Available In Gordon, Georgia

R D Engineer • Carpet Technology Mannington Mills, Inc. United States, Georgia, Calhoun 1844 U.S. 41 (Show on map) Jun 23, 2025

Job Title:

R D Engineer –

Carpet Technology Location:

1844 US Hwy 41 South, Calhoun, GA 30701 Job Purpose Lead innovation in carpet technology with a focus on tufting, advanced backing systems, coating formulations, and performance-enhancing treatments. This role drives product development across fiber, backings, and surface chemistry-balancing cost, sustainability, and performance to meet evolving market needs. Job Overview The R D Engineer will manage hands-on lab work, materials testing, and plant trials to develop next-generation carpet systems. Areas of focus include stain and moisture resistance, advanced backings (including recycled/recyclable content), and innovative coatings. The position works cross-functionally with production, sourcing, and marketing to commercialize scalable technologies. Occasional travel to manufacturing sites and industry events is required. Key Responsibilities Develop and refine coating formulations and backing systems for improved stain resistance, moisture control, dimensional stability, and environmental performance.
Lead formulation of topical treatments targeting soiling, pet hair release, microbial resistance, and cleanability.
Plan and execute plant trials to scale lab innovations into full production.
Conduct performance testing (e.g., tuft bind, delamination, LRV, VOC, dimensional stability).
Evaluate and source raw materials such as polymers, additives, and recycled fillers for use in coatings and backings.
Apply DOE, SPC, and root cause analysis to interpret results and drive improvements.
Collaborate with sustainability, sourcing, and marketing teams to align product innovations with compliance and market demands.
Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitor activity.
Support product compliance initiatives (e.g., EPR, Red List, PFAS restrictions).
Prepare and present detailed technical reports, cost models, and project updates to senior leadership. Job Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related field.
7+ years of experience in the carpet or textile industry with a strong record of innovation in coatings, backings, or performance chemistry.
Deep understanding of carpet manufacturing processes, including tufting, heat setting, lamination, and extrusion coating.
Strong background in raw material evaluation, adhesion testing, and performance benchmarking.
Proficient in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical process control (SPC).
Experience developing sustainable solutions (e.g., recycled content, PVC-free systems). Skills and Competencies Expertise in coating technologies including polymer dispersion, extrusion, and UV-curable systems.
Strong knowledge of topical treatment chemistry for stain, water, odor, and microbial control.
Demonstrated success in developing recyclable or environmentally preferred backing systems.
Proven project leadership and cross-functional collaboration.
Familiarity with ASTM, ISO, and CRI carpet testing standards.
Excellent communication skills, including technical writing and presentation delivery. Preferred Qualifications Experience with non-phthalate plasticizers, barrier films, or high-performance moisture backings.
Familiarity with sustainability frameworks such as ILFI Red List, EPR, and other regulatory initiatives.
Background in lean manufacturing, lifecycle analysis, or continuous improvement.
Involvement in technical standards development or industry working groups.