XPEL, Inc.

Principal R&D Engineer - TPU Chemistry and Processing

XPEL, Inc. • $100K — $130K *
San Antonio, TX 78228In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
More than 3 months ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related field with 8+ years of industry experience.
  • Strong expertise in polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers.
  • Hands-on experience with TPU/EPU synthesis and film extrusion processes.
  • Knowledge of structure-property mapping for polyurethane materials.
  • Competent in optical and mechanical testing methods.
  • Familiarity with performance additives and their effects on films.
  • Proficiency with advanced analytical tools relevant to polymers.
  • History of patent generation or publications in the field.
  • Experience leading interdisciplinary teams from concept to production.
  • Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

  • Lead research on TPU/EPU polymer architecture and performance metrics.
  • Establish lab protocols for producing optical-grade films.
  • Define relationships between processing variables and final film properties.
  • Optimize formulations for clarity and defect minimization.
  • Manage competitive intelligence on global TPU chemistry and processes.
  • Conduct testing to validate product lifespan and performance standards.
  • Collaborate with teams and partners for successful technology hand-offs.
  • Identify and secure intellectual property opportunities in polymer technologies.
  • Continuously innovate in polyurethane and optical polymer science.
  • Develop testing methodologies to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Benefits

  • Inclusive company culture and commitment to diversity.
  • Opportunity to work at the forefront of polymer technology innovation.
  • Collaborative environment with interdisciplinary teams.
  • Access to advanced analytical tools and resources.
  • Potential involvement in impactful research and development initiatives.
Full Job Description
Job Summary:

The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL's core technology.

Job Description:

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
  • Other duties as assigned


Basic Qualifications
  • B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience
  • Strong background in polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, and optical polymer systems.
  • Proven hands-on experience with TPU/EPU synthesis, film extrusion, and coating processes.
  • In-depth knowledge of structure-property mapping for polyurethane materials.
  • Strong understanding of processing variables (temperature, shear, residence time) and their effects on polymer morphology and film performance.
  • Proficiency with optical and mechanical testing: haze, gloss, tensile, elongation, modulus, durability, and weatherability.
  • Familiarity with additives (stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers) and their influence on film performance.
  • Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.
  • Track record of patent generation and/or publications in polyurethane or optical polymer fields.
  • Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization
  • Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability
  • Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
  • Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership
  • In-office role


Desired Qualifications
  • Advanced Degree preferred


XPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

About XPEL, Inc.

XPEL, Inc. is a leading provider of protective films and coatings for the automotive and architectural markets. The company's products are designed to protect against damage from rocks, debris, and other hazards, as well as to enhance the appearance of vehicles and buildings. XPEL's product portfolio includes paint protection films, window films, and ceramic coatings, among others. The company is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, and has operations in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Learn more about XPEL, Inc.
Size
709 employees
Market Cap
$1.5 billion
Industry
Retail & Consumer Goods
Net Income
$18.2 million
5 Year Trend
+38%
Revenue
$158.9 million
NASDAQ
XPEL
* Ladders Estimates

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