Compounding Process Chemist

Role details

Position Overview

Talalay Global is seeking a hands-on, technically skilled Compounding Process Chemist to oversee chemical formulation and compounding operations supporting our Talalay latex foam manufacturing process.

This position is responsible for ensuring the consistent preparation and delivery of chemical compounds that meet established specifications for quality, performance, safety, and production requirements. The role combines chemical formulation, process optimization, production management, and technical problem-solving within a manufacturing environment.

Working closely with Operations, Quality, and Maintenance, the Compounding Process Chemist will optimize formulations, troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, support product development, and drive improvements in process consistency, material utilization, and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in chemistry or chemical manufacturing, enjoys working directly in a production environment, and can translate technical knowledge into practical manufacturing improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Chemical Formulation & Process Development

• Oversee chemical formulation, preparation, and compounding activities supporting Talalay latex foam production.
• Ensure ingredient ratios, formulations, mixing procedures, and processing parameters consistently meet established specifications.
• Evaluate and optimize existing formulations to improve product performance, consistency, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Support research and development initiatives involving chemical formulations, raw materials, and product performance.
• Plan and conduct formulation trials and process experiments, analyze results, document findings, and recommend improvements.
• Investigate formulation inconsistencies, process variations, and product quality concerns to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance to production personnel regarding chemical properties, compound performance, and process requirements.
• Maintain accurate formulation records, batch documentation, test results, and technical specifications.

Production & Department Management

• Direct daily compounding operations to ensure production requirements are met and materials are delivered to downstream manufacturing processes on schedule.
• Coordinate production schedules, staffing, workflow priorities, and resource utilization to maximize department efficiency.
• Monitor batch preparation and processing to ensure accuracy, consistency, and traceability.
• Verify incoming raw materials and chemical deliveries against established specifications and documentation requirements.
• Monitor raw material consumption, inventory levels, and material availability to prevent production interruptions.
• Identify opportunities to reduce material waste, improve yields, control costs, and increase productivity.
• Coordinate equipment maintenance, repairs, and preventative maintenance activities with the Maintenance Department.
• Maintain accurate production records, shift reports, and operational performance updates.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compounding operations meet established quality standards, work instructions, and manufacturing procedures.
• Perform and coordinate physical property testing and collaborate with Quality to investigate nonconforming materials, batch discrepancies, and product performance issues.
• Establish and monitor departmental performance measures related to Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, and Productivity (SQDIP).
• Ensure proper chemical handling, storage, labeling, and disposal practices.
• Maintain compliance with applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations, including OSHA requirements and chemical safety standards.
• Ensure employees are trained in chemical handling, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and safe equipment operation.
• Promote a clean, organized, and safe manufacturing environment through consistent housekeeping and accountability.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement improvements to compounding processes, equipment utilization, production flow, and overall departmental performance.
• Use production data and process measurements to identify trends, evaluate performance, and drive improvements.
• Lead root-cause investigations and corrective action initiatives to prevent recurring quality and production issues.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, process standardization, and waste-reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, and Maintenance to improve coordination between compounding and downstream manufacturing processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in chemical manufacturing, materials processing, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience with chemical formulations, batch processing, mixing operations, or process control required.
• Experience analyzing production data, conducting process investigations, and implementing corrective actions.
• Experience working in a manufacturing environment with established quality and safety requirements.
• Previous experience coordinating or leading production teams preferred.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies preferred.
• Experience with latex, polymers, emulsions, or similar chemical processing applications is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of chemical formulations, material properties, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, formulation instructions, production data, and quality requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including root-cause analysis and process troubleshooting.
• Ability to translate technical concepts into practical manufacturing procedures and improvements.
• Strong organizational, production planning, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to balance competing priorities while maintaining a focus on safety, quality, and delivery.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to work with manufacturing data and reporting systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Self-directed with the ability to identify problems, recommend solutions, and drive improvements through completion.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional overnight or off-shift coverage, as operational needs require.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates primarily in a manufacturing environment and requires regular presence on the production floor. Employees may be exposed to chemicals, raw materials, production equipment, varying temperatures, and typical manufacturing noise levels.

The position requires compliance with all applicable safety procedures, including the use of designated personal protective equipment (PPE). The role may require periods of standing, walking, and movement throughout the manufacturing facility. Occasional work outside normal business hours may be necessary to support production operations and off-shift employees.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Management reserves the right to modify responsibilities and assign additional duties based on business needs.

Pay: From $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan
• Safety equipment provided
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person