Research & Development Chemist (Production/Chemical)

Job Description

Job Description

Research & Development Production Technology Chemist

Location: New Castle, DE
Job Type: Permanent/Direct Hire
Shift: 8:00am-4:30pm, Mon-Fri

Position Summary:
The R&D Production Technology Chemist is responsible for carrying out experiments required by the R&D Process Technology Group to meet the needs of Manufacturing, Quality, and Commercial teams, as well other divisions as needed. It requires technical support & development, as well as data management and communication as it relates to the overall Production Support activities. Assessment and improvement of technical and operational performance of pigment dispersions, current key raw material quality, and second sourcing of raw materials will be an important role of the position.

The Production Technology Chemist supports manufacturing by planning, executing, documenting, analyzing, and communicating laboratory studies that improve existing products, manufacturing processes, and raw material performance.

The role independently conducts experimental work, authors required safety documentation, and supports technical investigations, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The position also provides guidance and training to Production Support Technicians on laboratory equipment, processes, and techniques. As part of a cross-functional Production Support team, the Chemist collaborates with Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Regulatory, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), Purchasing, and other technical functions. Responsibilities include coordinating laboratory resources and, when delegated, scheduling technician activities to ensure uninterrupted project support.

The role requires active participation in EHS programs, safety audits, laboratory inspections, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Development -
Plan and conduct laboratory studies to develop and improve manufacturing processes for existing products, meeting quality, cost, productivity, operability, safety, and environmental objectives.
Perform in-process and laboratory analyses to generate reliable experimental data.
Execute experimental work in accordance with laboratory procedures, safety requirements, and good housekeeping practices.
Author required safety documentation for laboratory activities.

Manufacturing Support -
- Provide laboratory support and technical troubleshooting for manufacturing processes and raw material issues.
- Investigate and evaluate laboratory equipment to replicate manufacturing process conditions.
- Support process trials, scale-up activities, and on-site manufacturing evaluations as required.
- Conduct experimental investigations to resolve raw material and process challenges.

Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement process improvements and cost-saving opportunities.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records using electronic laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports and presentations.
- Apply statistical methods to analyze and interpret experimental data.
- Contribute to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Train and mentor Production Support Technicians on laboratory equipment, methods, and best practices.
- Coordinate laboratory resources and technician schedules when assigned.

Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry
- 5+ years of experience in a research, process technology, production technology, or analytical laboratory
- Lab experience supporting manufacturing and production operations (R&D Lab experience required)
- experienced in chemical operating

Desired experience:
- New Formulation
- Particle Sampling
- Polymer Sampling
- Pilot scale experience

Required Knowledge & Skills:
- Strong technical background in process chemistry, manufacturing support, or laboratory development.
- Experience investigating manufacturing processes, raw material issues, and implementing process improvements.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and meeting project deadlines.
- Proficiency with laboratory and pilot-scale equipment.
- Experience developing analytical methods, interpreting experimental data, and preparing technical reports.
- Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to solve complex technical challenges.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis and data visualization.
- Ability to plan, organize, and guide routine laboratory activities.
- Experience interacting with equipment suppliers and vendors regarding instrumentation and methodology improvements.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams.
- Commitment to laboratory safety, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance.

Accountability:
- Deliver high-quality technical solutions within established project timelines.
-Maintain compliance with applicable environmental, health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Complete all required safety and regulatory training.
- Ensure proper handling and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous laboratory waste.
- Participate in safety inspections, audits, and EHS initiatives, and contribute recommendations for safety improvements.
- Support compliance with organizational policies, governance standards, and applicable government regulations.

***All Qualified Candidates, please email resume to: Sarah Bartel ***
Email resume to: View email address on us.fitly.work
Phone: View phone number on us.fitly.work

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