Senior Chemist

Senior Chemist Small family-owned chemical manufacturer looking for an experienced chemist in industrial coatings or adhesives formulations. If you have experience in epoxy or polyurethane technology and like to work at the bench, support manufacturing, work directly with customers, and NOT deal with corporate red tape, this could be a great opportunity for you! Company offers excellent benefits with competitive pay; great opportunities for professional growth!

The Senior R&D Chemist is responsible for the research, formulation, development, testing, and commercialization of innovative adhesive, coating, sealant, encapsulating and polymer systems. This role supports customer-driven development projects while improving existing products, providing technical expertise to Manufacturing and Sales, and ensuring compliance with company quality systems. The position requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects from concept through commercialization.

Research & Product Development

Develop new adhesive, coating, sealant, potting, and encapsulating formulations to meet customer and market requirements. Improve existing products by optimizing performance, manufacturability, cost, and regulatory compliance. Design experiments, evaluate results, and recommend formulation improvements. Research emerging raw materials and technologies to support product innovation.

Product Commercialization

Lead laboratory development through pilot-scale trials and full manufacturing implementation. Support production scale-up activities and validate manufacturing processes. Prepare technical documentation, product specifications, and development reports.

Technical Support

Evaluate and qualify new raw materials and alternative suppliers. Support Manufacturing by troubleshooting production issues, resolving formulation-related deviations, and improving process efficiency. Provide technical support to Sales and Customer Service regarding product selection, customer trials, and technical inquiries.

Quality & Compliance

Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, test records, and project documentation. Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure calibration and preventive maintenance requirements are met. Follow all company safety policies and laboratory procedures.

Teamwork & Leadership

Collaborate effectively with Manufacturing, Sales, Quality, Purchasing, and Operations. Mentor junior laboratory personnel as assigned. Contribute ideas for continuous improvement within the laboratory and throughout the organization. Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a customer-focused approach in all interactions.

General Responsibilities

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment. Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and flexibility to meet business needs. Protect confidential company information and intellectual property. Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by Management.

Salary

$70,000 - $90,000

Benefits

M/D/L/401K match

Technical Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry.
• 2+ years of industry experience in formulating epoxy or polyurethane coatings or adhesives.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry and formulation principles.
• Experience with laboratory testing methods and analytical equipment.
• Ability to independently design experiments, analyze data, and solve technical problems.