Position SummaryThe Application Development Chemist - Flame Retardants plays a critical role in supporting growth across our flame retardants portfolio by generating application data, developing technical insights, and delivering customer-focused solutions. This position supports existing customer applications, helps identify opportunities in new and emerging markets, and collaborates closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, manufacturing, marketing, and commercial partners. The role reports to the Global Manager of Application Development.
Key Responsibilities- Design and execute laboratory experiments to demonstrate the performance and value of new and existing flame-retardant products.
- Build deep technical knowledge of the products, applications, and end-use markets supported by the flame retardants portfolio.
- Apply project management discipline to larger-scope development projects, including planning, execution, and communication of results.
- Provide technical support to help resolve product performance issues and processing challenges for internal and external customers.
- Develop, specify, and validate test methods to meet customer needs, and train technicians on new or updated procedures as needed.
- Operate and support the maintenance of flame-retardant testing equipment, including LOI and cone calorimeter capabilities, to generate performance data and support customer projects.
- Generate technical data and prepare clear reports, presentations, and summaries to support global customers, internal stakeholders, and marketing initiatives.
- Collaborate with manufacturing teams to support process optimization, troubleshooting, and root cause investigations.
- Maintain product specifications, technical data sheets, and other application-support documentation.
- Work safely at all times and actively promote a strong safety culture through disciplined laboratory practices and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications1. Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline.
2. 5-10 years of relevant industry experience in application development, technical service, product development, or laboratory-based technical support.
3. Demonstrated project management skills, including the ability to prioritize work, manage timelines, and drive projects to completion.
4. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Preferred Qualifications- Customer-facing experience and the ability to collaborate effectively with commercial, manufacturing, and technical teams are strongly preferred.
- Experience with PVC, polymer modifiers, flame retardants, wire & cable, or related materials and applications is preferred.
- Hands-on experience with flammability testing, compounding, or related polymer testing methods.
- Hands-on experience with the maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory and analytical testing equipment.
- Experience interpreting test results and translating technical findings into customer-relevant recommendations.
- Experience working in a global, cross-functional environment with R&D, manufacturing, and commercial teams.
