Senior Applications Chemist – Cleaning Systems & Coatings

Role details

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Applications Chemist to join our R&D team. This role will lead the development, testing, and optimization of detergent and wash additive formulations tailored to our appliances. The role will also support the development and evaluation of appearance finishes and coatings in our products. The ideal candidate has a strong background in surfactant chemistry, material compatibility, and consumer product performance, with a passion for innovation and learning.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Lead the evaluation and establishment of residential automatic dishwasher and laundry detergents, as well as other consumable wash additives, including machine cleaners, fabric softeners, and rinse agents.
• Collaborate with detergent and ingredient manufacturers to achieve the best cost/performance balance across formulations and form factors.
• Navigate the competitive landscape regarding performance, intellectual property, and claims to inform product positioning and differentiation.
• Develop and conduct laboratory and appliance-based performance testing to validate cleaning efficacy, residue control, dish care, fabric care, user safety, and machine-part compatibility and durability.
• Partner with engineering teams to ensure the design of detergents and additives aligns with appliance features, wash cycles, and long-term reliability.
• Support regulatory and environmental compliance, including safety certifications and sustainability initiatives (e.g., eco-labels, biodegradable claims).
• Provide technical expertise to troubleshoot field issues and address customer feedback regarding detergent and additive performance.
• Assist business product lines as coatings consultants, covering options such as powder, pre-paint, wet paint, PVD, electroplating, and graphics.
• Collaborate on all specifications and methods for appliance coatings technology.
• Serve as a technical resource for coatings processes and supplier root cause resolution.

Required:

• Master’s in chemistry; Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, with significant related experience.
• 5+ years of experience in detergent formulation and cleaning chemistry.
• Strong knowledge of surfactants, builders, enzymes, polymers, and specialty additives used in detergents and wash additives.
• Hands-on expertise with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC-MS, spectroscopy, titration, etc).
• Excellent problem-solving, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Demonstrated passion for teamwork. Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred:

• PhD degree in chemistry.
• Demonstrated experience in competitive benchmarking, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property considerations.
• Demonstrated experience in consumer goods development.