Research & Development Chemist

Role details

We are looking for a dedicated, analytically minded and detail-oriented Chemist to carry out formulation of paint products, conduct performance paint evaluations and offset raw material selections, sample preparations as needed to support quality activities, and participate in commercialization and technology transfer process activities to ensure secure launches.

The Chemist will conduct research and explore how products, processes, and equipment may be improved, and should be dedicated to improving processes and products while furthering scientific knowledge to drive profitability.

The Chemist role, requires in-depth knowledge of paint testing, including the methods used, equipment and systems. The job will involve both a day–to-day processing of workflows through the quality control laboratory. Job flexibility will be developed to ensure appropriate support to other roles at any time in the laboratory and will be expected to help with other work outside the Department in a technical liaison role, when required. The Chemist will work closely with team members on paint formulation and testing, as well as analytical and continuous improvement projects on a day-to-day basis.

The Chemist must have enthusiasm for the task in hand and a willingness to work under pressure to meet deadlines and drive quality metrics, while working in a safe and responsible manner, always. They will wear and use correct personal protective equipment where and when laid down by the company and will follow company health and safety and environmental procedures and reporting guidelines. The job holder will also be required to train on any computer software as designated by the company.

Product Development and Modification

• Develop new and innovative direct to metal industrial coatings products

• Modify existing technologies to suit customer needs

• When required due to regulation change or opportunity, reformulate existing paint products and associated manufacturing processes.

• Execute benchmarking studies of products. Interprets and clearly communicate results

• Perform testing from standard procedures.

• Prepare test formulations, conducting tests and advising and coordinating test procedures.

• Enter or modify formulas into the formula database, as needed

Communication

• Record and organize projects in an electronic format

• Write technical papers and reports, and preparing standards and specifications for processes, tests, and products, as requested

• Summarize complex datasets, project management notes, and process information into concise and easy to visually digest formats

• Safety and Maintenance

• Clean, maintain, and store testing tools and equipment

• Create thorough reports on tests and your findings

• Evaluate testing protocols and suggest improvements

• Clean and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, making sure that all the technology is working correctly, if it isn’t, troubleshoot the issue or problem. Conduct quality control tests to ensure no compounds or equipment are contaminated

• Maintain a clean and safe work environment, at all times

• Assure that the lab and handling of all chemicals is done consistent with company safety requirements

• Follow all company and governmental safety procedures

Required Qualifications

Minimum of a B.S. Degree in physical science (chemistry, chemical engineering, coatings or closely related field) and at least 1 year formulating experience in industry.

Preferred** **Qualifications

• M.S. Degree in physical science (chemistry, chemical engineering, coatings or closely related field) and 5 years formulating experience in industry.

• Knowledge paint formulation, application, catalysis, cure, and general property testing is required

• Knowledge of Enamels, Epoxy, and Polyurethane based paints, Waterborne and Solventborne, as applicable.

• Knowledge of colorimetry, color science, rheology, polymer chemistry