Description
Senior Chemical Engineer – Web-Based Coating Manufacturing (Senior Director)
Zink Holdings, LLC, Whitsett, NC
Zink Holdings, LLC is a leading innovator in digital photographic paper production and advanced web-based coating technologies. Our operations combine precision chemical formulation, high-speed roll-to-roll processing, and robust quality systems to deliver innovative products to customers worldwide.
We are seeking an experienced manufacturing leader with a strong chemical engineering background to join our senior management team in a Senior Director–level role.
Position Overview
The Senior Chemical Engineer (Senior Director) provides strategic and operational leadership across all Chemical Mixing and Coated Mill Roll manufacturing operations. This role is accountable for optimizing coating formulations, scaling processes, and leading high-performance manufacturing teams to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective production while meeting quality and delivery objectives.
This leader partners closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and R&D to drive operational excellence and long-term technical advancement in a high-volume roll-to-roll manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Provide executive-level technical leadership for web-based (roll-to-roll) coating manufacturing operations
Lead formulation development and optimization for solvent-based, water-based, UV-curable, and hot melt coating systems
Oversee coating processes including slot die, gravure, reverse roll, curtain, and knife-over-roll methods
Drive improvements in coating uniformity, adhesion, thickness control, and defect reduction
Lead yield improvement, scrap reduction, and throughput optimization initiatives
Partner with Production to troubleshoot coating defects such as streaks, mottle, voids, ribbing, and delamination
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
Oversee scale-up from lab and pilot lines to full-scale manufacturing
Collaborate on equipment upgrades, dryer optimization, web handling improvements, and line speed enhancements
Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, ISO, GMP, and all applicable environmental and safety regulations
Champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical process control (SPC) initiatives
Develop and mentor engineering and technical teams
Support new product introductions and ensure seamless commercialization
Requirements
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering (required)
Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Polymer Science (preferred)
Experience
10+ years of experience in coating or chemical process manufacturing
5+ years in web-based or roll-to-roll coating environments
Demonstrated experience scaling formulations from lab to production
Proven success troubleshooting coating defects and reducing process variability
Leadership experience in managing technical and cross-functional teams
Technical Expertise
Rheology, fluid dynamics, heat and mass transfer
Polymer chemistry, dispersions, emulsions, solvent systems
Web handling systems, tension control, and industrial drying systems
Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis tools
ERP/MES systems and manufacturing data analytics
Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) and chemical regulatory compliance
Leadership Competencies
Strategic thinking with operational execution focus
Strong people leadership and team development skills
Excellent cross-functional communication
High accountability and results orientation
Ability to thrive in fast-paced, manufacturing-intensive environments
Preferred Certifications
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
PMP (Project Management Professional)
Industry certifications in coatings, ISO, or process safety
Why Join Us?
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and career growth:
Competitive salary
4-Day Work Week (Monday–Thursday, four 10-hour days)
401(k) plan
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with significant employer contribution
Dollar-for-dollar HSA match annually up to IRS maximums
3 weeks of PTO
10–18 paid company holidays annually
Company-paid Life, AD&D, and Short-Term Disability insurance
Professional certification and continuing education support
Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization
Strong safety culture with investment in modern manufacturing technology
For immediate consideration, please contact Robin Manley at 336-414-1373 or send a resume to Robin.Manley@zink.com or apply www.zink.com/careers
