Research & Development Chemist

Full-time

Description

The R&D Chemist is a key member of the R&D Team, primarily supporting the Coatings, Paint, and Construction markets. This role involves hands-on sample preparation, characterization, and performance testing, with a focus on providing technical support to the Sales Coating team. Additionally, the R&D Chemist also provides analytical support to R&D, QC/Production, and customers. This position reports to the Director of Technology.

Key Responsibilities

Coatings Project Support (~90%)

Tests formulations and products for Coatings, Paints, and related applications.

Conducts lab bench work for product development, including preparation, characterization, and testing of polymer samples.

Collaborates with the Sales Coating team to evaluate and optimize recipes for various applications.

Supports business initiatives by communicating product capabilities and assisting in resolving customer issues.

Scales up new products from laboratory to full commercialization.

Maintains organized lab data and provides test reports as required.

Analytical Support (~10%)

Literature searches to acquire knowledge and develop testing methods.

Provides analytical support to R&D, QC/Production, and customers.

Coordinates with other technical departments for the use of lab and analytical equipment.

Collaborates with QC and Manufacturing groups to resolve customer and production issues.

Requirements

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or any other related field (Chemical Engineer, Material Science) preferred, but will consider a combination of education and direct coatings or formulation experience.

2 years of lab experience in water-based coating formulation and applications.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Open-minded, creative, and innovative.

Technical Skills and Expertise

Proficiency in chemistry concepts related to the formulation, characterization, and testing of water-based polymers for coating applications.

Knowledge of formulation components-performance properties interactions is required.

Experience with analytical instrumentation techniques (GC, FTIR, particle size analysis, DSC, DMA, rheology) is a plus but not required.

Ability to safely handle various raw materials and water-based polymer chemistries, including flammables and solvents.

Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Knowledge of statistical techniques and design of experiments methods.