Sr Product Development Chemist

About This Role

This senior-level role focuses on leading the development and optimization of high-performance coatings systems for industrial, consumer, and specialty applications. The role demands creative formulation skills, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of polymer science and adhesion mechanisms.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, formulation, and evaluation of coatings, adhesives, and specialty films using polymers such as PU, PET, VAc, Acrylic, PVF, and PVDF
• Develop and optimize adhesion systems for hard-to-bond substrates including polyethylene, polypropylene, and metallic surfaces
• Direct technical experiments, trials, and performance testing to validate new materials and processes
• Collaborate cross-functionally with quality, production, and commercial teams to ensure successful product launches
• Conduct root cause analysis and apply structured problem-solving methodologies (FMEA, DMAIC, control plans)
• Apply advanced Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize formulations and scale-up processes
• Manage scale-up activities from bench to pilot and full production, including documentation and training
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (REACH, RoHS, FDA) and maintain comprehensive technical documentation
• Serve as a technical liaison with customers and partners, providing formulation expertise and troubleshooting support
• Utilize instrumentation (FTIR, Instron, microscopy) and external testing resources to characterize material performance
• Lead multiple concurrent development projects, balancing priorities and resources across departments
• Communicate proactively with stakeholders and demonstrate leadership in problem-solving and decision-making

Requirements

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of product development experience with strong focus on formulation and adhesion science
• Proven expertise in working with various resin systems and relevant additives
• Familiarity with coating and adhesive test methods and surface characterization techniques
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in product development with strong focus on formulation and adhesion science.

Nice to Have

• Demonstrated success in formulating and compounding functional coatings and adhesives
• Experience with pressure-sensitive and thermally activated adhesives
• Familiarity with metallization techniques and metallized thin film
• Background in surface pretreatment technologies (e.g., plasma, corona, flame) and adhesion promoting chemistries
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced R&D or production environment

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits