Polymer and Synthetic Chemist

Job Title: Polymer and Synthetic ChemistTo be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.Job Type: Direct HireLocation: Lafayette / Boulder, Colorado, USAWork Arrangement: Onsite – 5 Days per WeekEmployment Type: Full-TimeReports To: Director of Synthetic ChemistryPosition SummaryChemistry is the invisible layer of critical industries, and traditional supply chains are increasingly vulnerable. Rather than refining petroleum, the organization creates essential molecules from the atom up.The Polymer and Synthetic Chemist will work across multiple business verticals, supporting polymer products for mining and metals, as well as binder and formulation development for energetic materials. The role combines phenolic condensation polymer chemistry, molecular weight distribution control, thermal characterization, and advanced binder systems for polymer-bonded explosives (PBX) and solid rocket motor applications.This position is suited for a chemist with hands-on synthetic organic chemistry, polymer development, and characterization experience who can translate laboratory research into reproducible product specifications.Key ResponsibilitiesLead phenolic condensation chemistry for mining and metals polymer products, from soluble oligomers to crosslinked beads, while maintaining narrow and reproducible molecular weight distributions.Conduct calorimetry and thermal characterization of curing reactions to establish safe and reproducible operating conditions.Develop binder systems for polymer-bonded explosives and solid rocket motor applications, including HTPB and energetic binder chemistry, cure kinetics, filler loading, rheology, pot life, and cured composite mechanical properties.Develop and validate polymer characterization methods, including GPC/SEC, DSC, TGA, rheometry, swelling, and extractables analysis.Control bead and resin morphology through suspension polymerization, particle size distribution, porosity, and surface area optimization.Evaluate candidate derivatives using the organization's platform chemistries in collaboration with the metals laboratory.Support cross-functional laboratory campaigns and provide hands-on technical assistance across business verticals as needed.Qualifications & ExperiencePhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering, with at least 2 years of postdoctoral or industry experience; alternatively, a BS/MS degree with 6+ years of industrial polymer development experience.Experience in step-growth polymerization and molecular weight control; phenolic or epoxy resin systems are particularly desirable.Hands-on synthetic organic chemistry experience, beyond formulation-only work.Practical experience performing polymer characterization techniques, including GPC/SEC, thermal analysis, and rheology.Experience scaling resin or binder development from laboratory batches to reproducible product specifications across multiple production campaigns.Ability to work in a hazardous laboratory environment, with a strong understanding of exotherm control and reaction safety.Preferred QualificationsExperience with HTPB, polyurethane, or energetic binder systems, including solid rocket motor propellant or PBX formulation.Experience in crosslinked bead and resin synthesis, suspension or emulsion polymerization, and porosity control.Reaction calorimetry for exothermic curing reactions and runaway reaction characterization.Experience in ion-exchange or chelating resin manufacturing and functionalization.Familiarity with ITAR-regulated environments or possession of a security clearance.Experience applying statistical design of experiments (DoE) to formulation development.Additional InformationWhat Success Looks LikeWithin the First 3 MonthsComplete calorimetry and thermal characterization of the phenolic curing reaction.Establish and document a safe operating envelope that all product lines sharing the reaction chemistry and reactor can follow.Within 6–12 MonthsDeliver the condensate at each target specification, demonstrating a reproducible molecular weight distribution across three consecutive batches.Define a binder formulation development pathway for the energetics program, including the characterization methods required for qualification.Export Control ComplianceThis role involves access to data and systems subject to U.S. export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).Candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual as defined under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).Compensation & BenefitsFinal compensation will be determined based on the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications. The organization offers a competitive benefits package, including:Medical Coverage: A wide range of medical plans, with many options fully covered for employees and dependents at no cost to the employee.401(k) with Employer Match: Employer matching contributions of up to 4% of eligible compensation.Paid Time Off: Vacation, paid company holidays, and an end-of-year shutdown. xhyhwjd Equity: An opportunity to join the organization at an early and pivotal stage of its growth, with equity commensurate with experience and meaningful potential upside as the company scales.Applicant Notices & DisclaimersFor information on benefits, equal opportunity employment, and location-specific applicant notices, click here