Chemist/Engineer, Research and Development

Are you ready to build a career in innovation? The QUIKRETE Companies is looking for a passionate individual to join our team at our state-of-the-art Engineering & Technical Center in Johns Creek, Georgia.

We're hiring for the role of Chemist/Engineer, Research & Development to support our cutting-edge research and product development efforts. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the construction industry. At QUIKRETE®, we're leaders in bagged concretes, mortars, and grouts-and we're making big moves in the CASE market with waterproof membranes, moisture barriers, sealants, and specialty coatings. This role will primarily support our QUIKRETE® and Custom® Building Products product lines.

What You'll Do

As a pivotal member of our Research and Development team, you will take a hands-on approach to evaluating novel materials and advancing product formulations, driving our mission to accelerate innovation and deliver smarter solutions for the built environment.

• Drive Product Development: Implement advanced technologies and industry expertise to develop new, high-performance products for both consumer and commercial construction markets.
• Qualify Materials: Design and execute rigorous experimental protocols to evaluate, test, and qualify new raw materials and alternate supplier sources.
• Optimize for Profitability: Engineer and optimize product formulations to drive cost savings and maximize profitability without compromising quality.
• Enhance Performance: Reformulate and redesign existing products to achieve superior performance metrics and meet evolving market demands.
• Mentor and Develop Talent: Supervise, train, and mentor laboratory technicians and junior engineering staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Spearhead R&D Initiatives: Lead and manage the Research and Development (R&D) activities and project lifecycles for designated product categories.

What We're Looking For

We believe that meaningful impact is driven by a strong technical foundation, relentless curiosity, and a passion for continuous learning. While advanced degrees are welcome, they are not a prerequisite for success in this role.

Education & Experience

• Education: Bachelor's or graduate degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Core Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience in laboratory environments or field applications focused on cement, concrete, paints, coatings, or other construction materials.
• Preferred Expertise: Familiarity with analytical methodologies, product formulation, mechanical testing, Design of Experiments (DoE), cement chemistry, and adhesives or coatings is highly desirable.

Technical & Professional Skills

• Problem Solving: Exceptional critical thinking abilities, utilizing logic and reasoning to evaluate complex challenges and optimize solutions.
• Quantitative Acumen: Strong applied mathematics skills, including proficiency in algebra and complex unit conversions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the proven ability to translate complex technical results and recommendations into clear insights for diverse, cross-functional audiences.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous and analytical approach to all lab work, data collection, and reporting.
• Team Fit & Attitude: Highly motivated and dependable, with a strong desire to develop professionally within a collaborative, fast-paced, and innovation-focused environment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent use of hands and arms for reaching, grasping, and fine motor manipulation.
• Capacity for intermittent standing, walking, turning, sitting, squatting, stooping, and bending
• Ability to safely carry up to 25 lbs., lift/lower up to 50 lbs., and push/pull up to 100 lbs. (with material handling equipment assistance).
• Potential (non-local) travel up to 50%

What You'll Gain

• Professional Growth: We offer in-depth training, technical certifications, and clear career development paths.
• Supportive Culture: Work with experienced mentors in a friendly, collaborative setting.
• Flexibility & Independence: Manage your workflow with autonomy, backed by a strong support system.

Why Choose QUIKRETE®?

We offer competitive salaries and a full range of benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and personal loss coverage
• Supplemental Life insurance options
• 401(k) plan with generous QUIKRETE® match