Industrial Product Development Chemist (Entry Level)

The Industrial Product Development Chemist (Entry Level) will be part of the Industrial Coatings Science & Technology Team and serve as an individual contributor within a collaborative team of 6-10 associates. This role supports the development of primers and topcoats for light industrial applications and combines hands-on laboratory work with formulation design, testing, and data analysis. The position also includes exposure to manufacturing scale-up and field support activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and formulate primers and topcoats for light industrial applications
• Conduct hands-on laboratory work, including formulation, testing, and performance evaluation
• Design and execute experiments (DOE) to optimize product performance and cost
• Analyze and interpret data to support formulation improvements and technical decisions
• Support manufacturing scale-up, including monitoring batches at production sites
• Provide technical support to field and production teams
• Evaluate coatings performance, including corrosion resistance, adhesion, durability, and finish quality
• Apply coatings using various methods such as spray, brush, and roll
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, manufacturing, and operations
• Ensure adherence to safety standards and best practices in all lab and plant environments
• Manage multiple projects and priorities to deliver results on time and in full
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, and cost reduction

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
• 0-3 years of experience in formulation, product development, or materials R&D
• Strong understanding of laboratory practices, experimental design, and data analysis
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with coatings formulation, application, and testing
• Familiarity with waterborne and solvent borne systems, including:
• Alkyd
• Urethane
• Acrylic
• Epoxy
• Experience with 1K and 2K coating technologies
• Knowledge of industrial coatings performance testing
• Exposure to manufacturing processes or scale-up activities

Work Environment & Details

• On-site, full-time position
• 1-2 year term assignment, with potential for extension based on performance and business needs
• Hands-on lab and manufacturing environment with cross-functional collaboration

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without employment-based visa sponsorship (now or in the future). This includes H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visas).

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.