Rubber Technologist

Position: Rubber Technologist

Department: Research & Development (R&D)

Location: Palghar, Maharashtra

Experience: 10–15 Years in the Rubber Manufacturing Industry

About the Role

Rane Elastomer Processors is looking for an experienced and hands-on rubber technologist to lead compound development, formulation optimization, product trials, laboratory testing, and technical improvements across our molded and extruded rubber product range. The ideal candidate should possess strong knowledge of rubber materials, processing techniques, quality systems, and cost optimization, with the ability to independently drive new product development, improve manufacturing efficiency, and reduce quality-related losses.

Key Responsibilities

* Develop, optimize, and validate rubber formulations for EPDM, NBR, NR, SBR, Silicone, FKM, and other elastomers.

* Conduct laboratory, pilot, and production-scale trials and prepare detailed trial reports.

* Lead new compound development and product validation activities as per customer requirements.

* Improve formulation cost efficiency through value engineering, raw material optimization, and alternative material development without compromising product performance.

* Reduce compound costs, manufacturing costs, and overall product costs through continuous improvement initiatives.

* Troubleshoot formulation, molding, extrusion, curing, and processing-related issues.

* Analyze production rejections, customer complaints, and quality issues and implement corrective and preventive actions.

* Drive reduction in rejection, rework, wastage, and process variation to improve profitability and productivity.

* Establish and monitor laboratory testing procedures for raw materials, compounds, and finished products.

* Interpret and validate test results, including tensile strength, elongation, hardness, specific gravity, compression set, aging, abrasion, ozone resistance, and other physical properties.

* Work closely with the Production, Quality, Purchase, and Sales teams to ensure successful product development and commercialization.

* Evaluate and approve new raw materials, additives, and alternative suppliers.

* Support customer approvals, technical discussions, audits, and product qualification activities.

* Ensure compliance with customer specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

* Maintain formulation records, technical documentation, specifications, and development data.

Required Skills & Qualifications

* 10–15 years of experience in rubber compounding, formulation development, laboratory testing, and rubber product manufacturing.

* Strong expertise in rubber compounding, formulation optimization, and cost reduction.

* Hands-on experience in conducting laboratory, pilot, and production trials.

* Strong knowledge of molded and extruded rubber products and manufacturing processes.

* Excellent understanding of rubber testing methods and laboratory equipment.

* Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949 quality management systems.

* Experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, CAPA, and audit compliance.

* Proven track record in reducing rejection, rework, wastage, and improving process capability.

* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.

* Ability to work independently and drive technical improvements across the organization.