POSITION TITLE
Applications Development Scientist / Engineer
POSITION OVERVIEW
Milliken's Performance & Consumer Innovations (PC&I) division is seeking an Applications Development Scientist or Engineer to support the evaluation, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies for consumer product applications. This role will be responsible for designing and executing laboratory testing programs, developing robust screening methodologies, generating actionable technical insights, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to accelerate product development.
The ideal candidate is a highly organized and detail-oriented scientist or engineer with strong experimental skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for translating new technologies into customer value. Experience in consumer-packaged goods (CPG), home care, laundry care, textiles, fragrance delivery, odor control, or related application areas is highly desirable.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Application Development & Testing
- Develop, execute, and refine laboratory methods to evaluate new materials, technologies, and formulations.
- Design screening protocols that efficiently identify promising technologies and distinguish performance differences.
- Conduct laboratory experiments, analyze results, and make data-driven recommendations.
- Develop test methods that are reproducible, statistically sound, and aligned with customer needs.
- Support scale-up and commercialization activities through application-focused testing.
Innovation & Product Development
- Collaborate with R&D scientists, product managers, and commercial teams to evaluate new technologies and concepts.
- Identify key performance drivers and translate technical findings into practical product recommendations.
- Support new product development projects from early-stage concept screening through commercialization.
- Stay current on industry trends, competitive technologies, and emerging testing methodologies.
Data Analysis & Technical Communication
- Analyze experimental data using statistical tools and sound scientific principles.
- Design and execute Design of Experiments (DOE) studies to optimize formulations and application performance.
- Prepare clear technical reports, presentations, and customer-facing summaries.
- Effectively communicate technical findings to diverse audiences, including commercial, technical, and leadership teams.
QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Textile Engineering, Consumer Science, or a related scientific or engineering discipline.
- Relevant industrial experience in applications development, product development, testing, or related R&D activities, based on degree level: 10+ years with a B.S.; 5+ years with an M.S.; or 3+ years with a Ph.D.
- Strong laboratory skills and experience conducting structured experimental programs.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
The successful candidate will have strengths in the following:
- Experience in consumer packaged goods (CPG), home care, laundry care, hair care, textile care, or adjacent industries.
- Experience developing complex formulations with an understanding of ingredients and fabric interactions.
- Experience developing application test methods and screening protocols.
- Knowledge of experimental design, DOE, and statistical analysis.
- Experience with odor testing, sensory evaluation, fragrance performance, or malodor control technologies.
- Experience supporting new product development and commercialization efforts.
- Familiarity with data analysis software such as JMP or similar tools.
- Experience working directly with customers or application-focused development teams.
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