R&D Chemist II

Element Solutions

$81K — $122K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related discipline (Master's or PhD preferred)
  • Prior experience in an R&D laboratory environment (industrial experience highly advantageous)
  • Strong knowledge of organic, inorganic, polymer, or physical chemistry
  • Experience in formulation chemistry, material science, or chemical process development
  • Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (e.g., FTIR, GC/MS, HPLC)

Responsibilities

  • Design and conduct laboratory experiments for new chemical formulations
  • Analyze, interpret, and document experimental results
  • Evaluate performance, stability, and feasibility of new products
  • Investigate new raw materials and methodologies
  • Propose innovative solutions to technical challenges
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing and Quality
  • Prepare technical reports, product specifications, and safety documentation

Benefits

  • Generous performance-related bonus plan
  • 401k plan with company matching
  • Life and Medical Insurance
  • 9 paid holidays
Full Job Description
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking an innovative and scientifically curious R&D Chemist II to join our global research and development team. This role is ideal for someone who brings deep technical expertise in chemistry, strong problem-solving skills, and a passion for creating new materials, formulations, and technologies. You'll thrive here if you enjoy pushing boundaries, experimenting with new ideas, and turning scientific concepts into commercially viable solutions that make a real-world impact.

What will you be doing?
As an R&D Chemist, you will play a key role in developing the next generation of products and technologies for our global customers. Your responsibilities will include:

Research & Development
  • Designing and conducting laboratory experiments to develop new chemical formulations, materials, or processes
  • Analyzing, interpreting, and documenting experimental results
  • Evaluating performance, stability, and feasibility of new products
Innovation & Problem Solving
  • Investigating new raw materials, technologies, and methodologies
  • Proposing innovative solutions to technical challenges
  • Identifying opportunities for product improvements or cost optimisations
Collaboration & Project Execution
  • Working closely with cross-functional teams including Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, Procurement, and Commercial
  • Supporting scale-up activities and technology transfer to production sites
  • Preparing technical reports, product specifications, and safety documentation
  • Acting as a subject-matter expert during customer trials, audits, or supplier engagements
Compliance & Safety
  • Ensuring all laboratory work adheres to internal standards, regulatory requirements, and safety protocols
  • Maintaining accurate records, equipment calibration, and good laboratory practices
Who are You?
You are someone who embodies both scientific excellence and collaborative spirit. Specifically, you:
  • Are naturally curious and excited by scientific discovery
  • Enjoy hands-on work in the lab and take pride in analytical precision
  • Communicate complex information clearly and effectively
  • Thrive in diverse, multicultural teams across global sites
  • Are resilient, resourceful, and comfortable navigating ambiguity
  • Bring a proactive and solution-oriented mindset to your work
  • Value both innovation and practicality-balancing creativity with technical feasibility
What competencies will you need?
  • To succeed in this role, you will need a blend of technical and interpersonal competencies, including:

    Technical Competencies
    • Strong knowledge of organic, inorganic, polymer, or physical chemistry
    • Experience in formulation chemistry, material science, or chemical process development
    • Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (e.g., FTIR, GC/MS, HPLC, rheology, thermal analysis)
    • Ability to design experiments, analyse data, and draw scientifically sound conclusions
    • Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (e.g., REACH, GHS) and safety standards
    Professional Competencies
    • Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking ability
    • Strong project management and organisation skills
    • Clear and concise written and verbal communication
    • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional and global teams
    • Adaptability to shifting priorities and evolving project scopes
    Qualifications
    • Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related discipline (Master's or PhD preferred, depending on specialization)
    • Prior experience in an R&D laboratory environment (industrial experience highly advantageous)
We are Offering...
As part of our team here, as well as receiving a competitive base salary, you will also participate in a generous performance related bonus plan. In addition, you will also receive a 401k plan with company matching, Life Insurance, and Medical Insurance as well as 9 holidays.
The typical base salary for this position is $81,470 to $122,206.

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