R&D Scientist & Technical Leader - Waterborne

We are seeking an R&D Scientist and Technical Leader, a critical role within our R&D organization. If you have expertise in waterborne chemistry and formulations knowledge in both architectural and industrial products, this is the opportunity you’ve been looking for. You should also have an expert level of technical knowledge with a strong track record of product and process development, innovation, and commercialization in coating technologies. You must also possess strong, demonstrated competencies and experience in project management accompanied by people and organizational leadership skills.Technology Knowledge:Expertise in broad ranges of coating chemistries particularly acrylic, epoxy, urethane, polyaspartics and sil(ox)anes etc.Expertise in application and formulation science for various coating systems of primer, basecoat, topcoat systems for liquid waterborne, solventborne and 2K coatings along with expert understanding of DIY, Contractor, and OEM Coatings.Strong command on analytical methods and structure-property relationshipExpert understanding of manufacturing process and product developmentTechnical Leadership:Action Oriented - ability to make strategic decisions (technical and staff utilization) and influence leaders and scientist to execute those initiative while managing business strategy and value creation Demonstrated skillset and track record in creating an environment to scout new ideas and innovation.Continuous learning and intimate awareness of open literature and competitive landscapeDemonstrated ability to develop and execute project plan - time management, prioritization, managing the projects and R&D projects/teams and measuring progress. Excellent effectiveness to allocate resources towards initiatives by working with cross-functional leadershipDemonstrated ability to communicate with project stakeholders and cross-functional teams, leadership and external scientific community.People Leadership:Outstanding personal and interpersonal skills – listening, compassion, motivating, inspiring, humor, patience, understanding diversity, negotiating etc.Energetic, Driving and InspiringAction oriented, perseverance and results drivenDemonstrates CourageLeadership (technical & managerial) command skills, conflict managementContinuous learning/growth and mentorship and teaching skillsOrganization Leadership:Ability to lead and interact with cross-functional teams in a matrixed organization Agility to respond emerging business needs - strong change of management skillsManaging high stakes and challenging situation with all levels of organizationsUsing, assessing the organizational processes and developing new processes to improve efficiency and qualityDemonstrate strong career ambition – potential to become top leader.QUALIFICATIONS:KNOWLEDGE:Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.At least 4 years of technical supervisory or management experience with a diverse workforce., M.S. or equivalent science degree in Chemistry, must possess a strong knowledge of organic chemistry, or related scientific field, minimum 10 years technical experience in product development in specific area of expertise, strong understanding of manufacturing, Quality assurance, scale up procedures, applications, raw materials purchasing, regulatory matters and must be computer literate, 2 to 3 years successful working experience with marketing group.From big benefits to small, we take care of our associates! 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 generous PTO (vacation/sick days/parental leave). Rust-Oleum offers (9.5) paid holidays and (2) floating holidays per year. 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 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.Full timePosting Date: 2026-03-09