Position SummaryLeader Tech is seeking a technically qualified Conductive Elastomer Manufacturing Manager to lead, manage, and oversee all operations associated with the production of conductive elastomer materials and finished EMI shielding components, including bonded O-rings, pressed O-rings, die-cut gaskets, and custom elastomeric assemblies.
This position requires a degree in technical professional with expertise in polymer science, materials engineering, chemical engineering, or related discipline. The Manager's primary duty is management of the assigned manufacturing operation and workforce, with responsibility for process control, product quality, labor efficiency, safety compliance, staffing and performance management, and continuous improvement within a precision manufacturing environment serving high-reliability industries.
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership- Direct and manage daily operations of conductive elastomer mixing, milling, molding, bonding, curing, die cutting, and finishing processes, including assignment and direction of work within the department.
- Manage production scheduling and labor allocation to meet customer delivery requirements while optimizing throughput and minimizing scrap.
- Oversee compounding of conductive elastomer formulations containing silver-plated aluminum, nickel-graphite, silver, or other conductive fillers.
- Ensure adherence to documented process parameters including cure profiles, compression set targets, durometer specifications, and electrical conductivity requirements.
- Exercise independent judgment in coordinating with Planning, Engineering, Quality, and Tooling to establish priorities, resolve operational issues, and ensure efficient workflow and capacity utilization.
Technical Oversight- Maintain process control over compression molding, transfer molding, bonding processes, and die cutting operations.
- Monitor and improve critical performance metrics including:
- Volume resistivity / surface resistivity
- Shielding effectiveness
- Compression force deflection (CFD)
- Tensile strength and elongation
- Dimensional tolerances
- Support new product introduction (NPI), tooling validation, and first article inspections.
- Troubleshoot process deviations, curing inconsistencies, bonding failures, and material nonconformances.
Quality & Compliance- Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and AS9100 (if applicable) quality standards.
- Maintain adherence to ESD control protocols and material traceability requirements.
- Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) related to elastomer processing and assembly.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations related to polymer processing and conductive filler handling.
Continuous Improvement- Implement Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste and improve process capability (Cp/Cpk).
- Lead cost-reduction initiatives related to scrap, cycle time, labor efficiency, and material utilization.
- Develop standard work instructions and optimize labor allocation.
- Support automation initiatives where applicable.
Team Management- Supervise and direct production supervisors, lead operators, and manufacturing personnel, including at least two full-time employees or their equivalent.
- Conduct performance management, training, coaching, and workforce development; address performance and disciplinary matters within the scope of assigned authority.
- Participate in interviewing and selection of department personnel and make recommendations regarding hiring, promotion, discipline, performance improvement, and termination; such recommendations are given significant consideration in employment decisions.
- Ensure cross-training and succession planning within the department and foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.
- Minimum 5-7 years of manufacturing leadership experience in elastomers, polymers, rubber molding, or EMI shielding products.
- Demonstrated experience with compression molding, transfer molding, elastomer bonding, and die cutting operations.
- Strong understanding of conductive filler systems and electrically conductive elastomer materials.
- Experience interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and production scheduling tools.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience in EMI/RFI shielding materials manufacturing.
- Knowledge of MIL-DTL, ASTM, and aerospace/defense material standards.
- Lean or Six Sigma certification.
- Experience with bonded assemblies and adhesive selection for elastomer-to-metal bonding.
- Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and process capability analysis.
Key Competencies- Technical depth in elastomer material science
- Process optimization and root cause analysis
- Production planning and labor management
- Quality systems compliance
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Clear communication across cross-functional teams
Work Environment- Manufacturing environment with exposure to rubber processing equipment, curing ovens, bonding operations, and die cutting machinery.
- Requires frequent floor presence and hands-on process evaluation.
- Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and stand for extended periods as needed.
