R&D Scientist

About the Company Solving challenges is the very foundation of who we are. After all, in the beginning, our founder, sea captain Robert Fergusson, didn’t particularly care about paint. When he founded our company in 1921, he just wanted to keep his ship intact and stumbled upon a valuable solution. Today, that discovery is Rust‑Oleum Corporation. The same passion that drove the Captain to spend his next few years creating the world’s first rust‑preventative paint still drives us today. When we see a problem, we work diligently until we’ve perfected a solution, which has led to some of the most cutting‑edge, durable and innovative products in the industry. Our creative and talented team of over 2000 people across every corner of the world helps us remain the global leader in protective paints and coatings for both home and industry. Role Overview As our R&D Scientist you will innovate, scale up, and commercialize existing and new cost‑effective quality technology by contributing technical expertise to the corporate planning process, quickly responding to market opportunities, and defending the corporation against competitive threats. Technology Competency Strong understanding of Scientific Methodology, hypothesis‑driven research and problem‑solving using experimental design, data analysis and documentation. Coating chemistries: alkyd, acrylic, epoxy, urethane, phenolic, polyaspartics and sil(ox)anes. Coating formulation science: lead the design, development and optimization of aerosol coating formulations, including paints, sprays and specialty coatings for various consumer applications (solvent‑borne and waterborne). Utilize in‑depth knowledge of aerosol technology, including propellant systems, valve systems and spray mechanisms, to develop high‑performance products. Analytical science and material science with an emphasis on structure‑property relationships. Technical Leadership Develop and implement project plans and timelines while managing multiple high‑level projects; measure progress and provide updates in alignment with marketing. Demonstrated capability of becoming a vocal and influential voice in project planning and deliverables together in collaboration with a cross‑functional team. Make strategic decisions (technical and staff utilization) and influence leaders and scientists to execute initiatives while managing business strategy and value creation. Outstanding technical, interpersonal communication and presentation skills. Drive product innovation by researching and integrating new raw materials, technologies and methodologies into aerosol formulations to enhance performance, durability and user experience. Proven track record of identifying, researching and prototyping innovative ideas. Address and resolve complex formulation and application challenges, including issues related to stability, compatibility and application efficacy. Continuous learning and intimate awareness of open literature and competitive landscape. Assist in the allocation of resources toward initiatives by working with the leadership team to identify long‑term platform strategies. Demonstrate influence in decision‑making and communicate with project stakeholders and cross‑functional teams, leadership and the external scientific community. Organization Leadership Agility to respond to emerging business needs with strong change‑management skills. Build strong partnerships internally within R&D and other internal functions (marketing, manufacturing, sourcing, etc.) and externally (vendors, customers, etc.). Manage high‑stakes and challenging situations with all levels of the organization. Assess organizational processes and develop new processes to improve efficiency and quality. Demonstrate strong career ambition – potential to become a top leader. Strong business acumen. Education Guidelines BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials or other equivalent scientific field required. MS or PhD strongly preferred. Benefits After 30 days of employment, you will be eligible for a benefits package that includes medical, dental, life, disability and business travel insurance, flexible spending accounts, EAP, stock purchases and vacation/sick days/parental leave. We also offer a 401(k) plan after three months of employment. Associates are vested in the RPM Pension plan after completing five years of service. Rust‑Oleum offers nine and a half paid holidays, two floating holidays per year and you are also eligible to earn three weeks of vacation on an annualized basis. Rust‑Oleum is an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, or any other protected class. #J-18808-Ljbffr