Sr. Scientist

Position Summary The Senior Scientist – Radiation Curable Coatings is a technical leader within the R&D organization, responsible for the design, formulation, and commercialization of UV/EB-curable coatings through a deep understanding of structure–property–performance relationships, coating–substrate interactions, application-method-driven formulation requirements, and gloss control mechanisms. This role combines hands‑on formulation chemistry with project leadership, technical mentoring, and cross‑functional collaboration to advance the company’s innovation pipeline and core technologies. Responsibilities Lead the design and formulation of UV/EB-curable coatings (acrylate, methacrylate, epoxy, cationic, hybrid systems). Apply deep understanding of structure–property relationships to optimize adhesion, hardness, flexibility, chemical resistance, weatherability, optical properties, cure response, and gloss level. Design coatings for and troubleshoot adhesion to wood, glass, acrylic, vinyl, aluminum, and steel. Develop and optimize low‑gloss and matte coatings using controlled incompatibility, surface topology control, matting agents, phase separation, and cure kinetics. Formulate coatings compatible with roll coating, spray, curtain coating, vacuum coating, and flow/slot‑die coating. Establish relationships between molecular structure, formulation, processing conditions, substrate characteristics, and surface morphology. Troubleshoot formulation, application, gloss, adhesion, and scale‑up challenges. Define technical objectives, experimental plans, and success criteria aligned with business and application needs. Communicate progress, risks, and tradeoffs to cross‑functional stakeholders. Ensure formulations are robust, scalable, and deliver consistent appearance and performance. Mentor junior and mid‑level chemists in formulation strategy, gloss control, and application‑aware formulation. Promote best practices in experimental design, data quality, and documentation. Collaborate with application engineering, manufacturing, quality, sales, and customers. Personal Attributes and Experience PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science (highly preferred). 5–10+ years of industrial experience in UV/EB‑curable coatings including free‑radical, EB, cationic, or dual‑cure systems. Demonstrated expertise in structure–property–performance relationships. Proven experience with low‑gloss or matte coatings. Experience with multiple substrates and coating application methods. Track record of leading technical projects to commercialization. Familiarity with rheology, FTIR cure monitoring, DMA, surface roughness, and gloss measurement. Prior experience mentoring or leading chemists and technicians. Strategic application of AI tools and technologies to drive business outcomes, enhance decision‑making, and improve operational efficiency. Work Environment This job is primarily performed in an office environment. The noise level in the office is generally moderate. Benefits Competitive benefits package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability). Incentive plans. 401(k) with employer contribution and match. Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match. Paid time off (vacation and sick time). Paid holidays. Tuition reimbursement program. Employee assistance program (EAP). Wellness program. Training and career progression. Equal Opportunity Employment Apogee Enterprises, Inc. and our brands are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. #J-18808-Ljbffr UW Interco, LLC