Elastomer Formulation Chemist (Silicone & EPDM)

Job Description

Job Description

Step Into the Lab

In Corona, CA, your day begins where macromolecular chemistry meets real-world manufacturing. You pull a development ticket: a high-temp hose compound for a military cooling system. You review prior trials, tweak the ratio of fillers and crosslinkers, and head to the mixer. By mid-morning, tensile and hardness coupons are curing; you calibrate the rheometer, prep FTIR scans, and verify viscosity against internal and customer specs. After lunch, you walk the production floor to troubleshoot a mixing inconsistency, adjust process parameters, and document a corrective action. Before heading out, you update SOPs, log results in our ERP/LIMS, and tag materials in inventory to keep SDS and regulatory files current. It’s hands-on chemistry with immediate impact.

About the Company

We are a world-class manufacturer of high-performance silicone and EPDM hose products serving heavy-duty truck, bus, coach, marine, military, construction equipment, and industrial markets. From fabric braiding to molding, extrusion, and final assembly, we operate a vertically integrated plant and formulate our own elastomers in-house. Our ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications reflect a commitment to precision and continuous innovation—and we empower engineers and scientists to own their craft.

What You Will Do

• Formulate, mix, and evaluate silicone and EPDM elastomer compounds for both production runs and R&D programs.
• Execute lab testing on raw materials, in-process batches, and finished goods to verify compliance with internal and customer specifications.
• Create, update, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures and test methods.
• Diagnose formulation and processing issues on the production floor and recommend data-driven corrections.
• Advance new product development through literature reviews, trial design, and rigorous documentation of results.
• Partner with Quality to uphold ISO requirements and customer standards.
• Record and report data accurately in lab management or ERP systems.
• Help manage chemical inventory, SDS, and regulatory documentation.
• Keep the lab safe and organized in line with OSHA and company safety practices.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master’s a plus).
• 2+ years in polymer chemistry, elastomer compounding, rubber chemistry, or similar manufacturing setting preferred.
• Hands-on familiarity with silicone or EPDM is highly valued.
• Experience operating rheometers, tensile and hardness testers, and FTIR.
• Working knowledge of quality control methods and documentation discipline.
• Sharp attention to detail; able to prioritize in a fast-paced production environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; ERP or LIMS experience is a plus.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $65,000 - $90,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Clear paths for growth within a vertically integrated, expanding operation.