ABOUT THE ROLEServe as the centralized technical authority on fundamental material science, driving the understanding of structure-property relationships to accelerate innovation across all R&D business groups. This role bridges theoretical polymer physics and chemistry with practical formulation, ensuring rapid, data-driven product development from benchtop to commercialization.
WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH Strategic R&D Acceleration- Define and build fundamental structure-property relationships to accelerate new product development across all core business units: Contact Adhesives , Silicon Coatings & Adhesives , Polyurethane & Polyurea Systems , and Epoxy Coatings.
- Translate complex molecular interactions into predictable macroscopic performance metrics (e.g., abrasion resistance, flexibility, adhesion, and weatherability) to reduce formulation trial-and-error.
- Identify synergistic technology platforms and raw materials that can be leveraged across different product lines to capture new market opportunities in roofing, building envelopes, and marine/industrial flooring.
Advanced Analytical Leadership- Lead the strategic use of deep analysis equipment across the development labs to understand exactly why products perform the way they do.
- Utilize advanced characterization tools, including Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometers , Gas Chromatographs (GC-MS) , Differential Scanning Calorimeters (DSC) , and Advanced Rheometers.
- Confirm cure mechanisms, identify trace contaminants, analyze failures, and qualify complex new raw materials using chemical analysis.
- Correlate advanced chemical analysis with mechanical performance testing derived from Universal Testing Machines (UTMs) analyzing stress-strain curves, modulus, and peel/lap shear adhesion.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Scale-Up- Act as the primary technical consultant to specialized R&D Managers\chemists, helping to resolve complex formulation roadblocks involving polymer/crosslinker systems, catalyst packages, and adhesion promoters.
- Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational molecular behaviors and reactive chemistries translate successfully from 1-liter benchtop batches to 20-50kg pilot batches.
- Provide predictive risk analysis for process scale-up by analyzing mixing dynamics, exotherms, and temperature controls for complex reactive chemistries.
Mentorship & Scientific Excellence- Foster a culture of scientific rigor, continuous learning, and advanced experimental design across the entire R&D organization.
- Ensure all cross-functional development aligns with critical industry standards (e.g., ASTM standards for sealants and roof coatings) and evolving environmental regulations.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR - Education: PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related highly technical field.
- Experience: 15+ years of progressive, advanced R&D experience in the specialty chemicals, coatings, adhesives, or elastomers industry.
- Cross-Chemistry Expertise: Deep, proven understanding of multiple polymer chemistries, specifically including solvent-based rubbers, silicones, polyurethanes/polyureas, and epoxies.
- Analytical Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in interpreting data from advanced thermal, rheological, and spectroscopic characterization equipment to build predictive structure-property models.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead without direct authority, acting as a high-level technical consultant and mentor to specialized R&D formulation teams.
WHAT WE OFFER - Competitive salary
- Retirement Savings: Choose from 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance
- Holistic Health & Well-being programs
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care
- Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts
- Paid time off & paid holidays
- Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
- Educational Assistance Program
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