Chemist

Uncaged Innovations Inc. is a pioneering biomaterial innovation company dedicated to creating sustainable alternatives to traditional materials. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Chemist to join our dynamic R&D team. This role is ideal for a hands‑on, mid‑to‑senior‑level chemist who thrives in a fast‑paced startup environment and is eager to work across lab development, pilot trials, and full‑scale manufacturing. Job Description As the Chemist, you will be responsible for driving the development, optimization, and scale‑up of our plant‑derived elastomer formulations and coating systems for Uncaged’s innovative biomaterials. This position requires a balance of scientific rigor, production expertise, and practical problem‑solving. You will report directly to the CTO & Co-Founder and collaborate closely with our manufacturing partners, both domestic and international, as well as engage directly with key clients to ensure technical excellence and production success. Responsibilities Lead R&D efforts on coated fabric formulations and systems, including natural polymer adhesive coatings, water‑based polymer coatings and synthetic dispersions. Design, execute, and analyze experiments to develop new sustainable coatings and optimize existing ones. Oversee the full product development cycle — from laboratory research to pilot runs and full‑scale manufacturing. Troubleshoot material and process challenges at all stages of production to ensure performance and consistency. Collaborate with external manufacturing partners to translate formulations into scalable, repeatable processes. Serve as a technical liaison with key clients, addressing product performance, testing, and application feedback. Document experimental data, maintain formulation records, and contribute to technical reports or patent filings. Stay current with advances in next‑gen sustainable materials and sustainable coated fabrics technologies. Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. 5+ years of industry experience related to developing and improving water‑based polymer formulations, such as adhesives, coatings, and composites. Experience with coated textiles, fabric finishing, or surface treatment technologies. Demonstrated ability to work across R&D and manufacturing environments, including pilot and full‑scale production. Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface directly with clients and manufacturing partners. Confidence and professionalism when representing Uncaged with external stakeholders; able to stand firm and advocate for company standards when needed. Proactive, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced, startup environment. Excellent problem‑solving and critical thinking skills. Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of analytical methods such as rheology, tensile and peel testing, FTIR, DSC, and microscopy. Experience working with domestic and international manufacturing partners or suppliers. Understanding of sustainable material development and bio‑based chemistry. What We Offer The opportunity to be part of a mission‑driven, innovative team shaping the future of sustainable materials. Competitive compensation and benefits package. A collaborative and supportive work environment focused on creativity, integrity, and impact. Hands‑on experience across R&D, production, and client collaboration. Uncaged Innovations will consider all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology #J-18808-Ljbffr