Director, Advanced Materials

Location: Cofer CenterJob Summary Southwire is seeking a scientific leader to bring together three capabilities deep materials expertise, manufacturing knowledge, and computational discovery. The Director will strengthen the scientific foundation of our copper and aluminum operations while establishing a faster, more predictive approach to developing materials and processes.

Key Responsibilities: Lead the investigation and resolution of complex materials and manufacturing challenges affecting quality, scrap, throughput, process stability, and the use of recycled copper and aluminum. Integrate metallurgy, materials characterization, plant data, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence to identify root causes and develop durable solutions. Provide scientific leadership for Southwire’s Materials Intelligence Platform, connecting laboratory, manufacturing, and materials data to support predictive analysis and accelerated discovery. Develop validated models that allow teams to evaluate material and process changes before committing to full-scale production trials. Direct the discovery, evaluation, and scale-up of new alloys, conductor materials, insulation systems, coatings, and thermal-management technologies. Establish a long-term roadmap for materials characterization, computational materials science, AI-guided experimentation, and laboratory automation. Define rigorous standards for experimentation, data integrity, technical validation, manufacturing scale-up, and safe implementation. Build internal capability by developing technical talent, preserving critical knowledge, and ensuring that learning from one facility benefits the broader organization. During the first year, deliver measurable progress on selected manufacturing priorities, demonstrate a high-value application of the Materials Intelligence Platform, and establish a prioritized plan for materials capability and infrastructure Lead the investigation and resolution of complex materials and manufacturing challenges affecting quality, scrap, throughput, process stability, and the use of recycled copper and aluminum. Required Education & Experience

Minimum Education Level: Doctorate Degree in Materials Science/Metallurgical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, or a related technical discipline.

Years of Experience: 8-11 YearsField of Expertise:progressive experience in research, advanced technology development, innovation strategy, engineering, corporate development, venture investing, or related technical fields. Experience evaluating emerging technologies and translating technical concepts into business opportunities. Demonstrated success building partnerships across industry, academia, startups, and research institutions. Preferred Education & Experience

Minimum Education Level: Master's degree - MBA or demonstrated business leadership experience

Years of Experience: 5+ Years

Travel: Up to 25%; Domestic

Physical Requirements: Standing: 5%Walking: 5%Working Conditions Office LaboratoryEquipment Computer/Keyboard Business Insights Communicates Effectively Drives Results Manages Ambiguity Manages Complexity Values Differences Skills JIRAWorkflow Management Scrum (Software Development) Test Planning Software Development Life CycleAgile Methodology Systems Development Life Cycle Process Improvement Analytical Skills Benefits We Offer:401k with Matching Family and Individual Insurance Packages (Health, Life, Dental, and Vision) Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays Long & Short-Term Disability Supplemental Insurance Plans Employee Assistance Program Employee Referral Program Tuition Reimbursement Programs Advancement & Professional Growth opportunities& More Southwire is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.