Synthetic Latex Chemist

Role details

Position Summary

The Synthetic Latex Chemist performs laboratory testing, supports formulation trials, analyzes results, and helps troubleshoot product or manufacturing concerns. This entry-level role is perfect for a current college student nearing graduation or a recent graduate with a foundation in chemistry, mathematics, and Microsoft Excel.

The successful candidate will learn established laboratory methods, maintain accurate records, recognize basic data trends, and communicate findings to laboratory, quality, and production teams. Familiarity with water-based chemical systems or common laboratory equipment is helpful but may be gained through coursework, internships, or on-the-job training.

Duties and Responsibilities

Chemical Formulation and Adjustments

• Assist with preparing, evaluating, and improving synthetic latex formulations under guidance.

• Calculate ingredient ratios, concentrations, percentages, and batch quantities.

• Conduct controlled trials and evaluate how adjustments affect viscosity, solids, stability, and product performance.

• Document formulations, calculations, observations, and test results.

• Help investigate inconsistencies and evaluate raw materials or alternative ingredients.

Laboratory Testing and Sample Evaluation

• Prepare, label, track, and test raw-material, formulation, and finished-product samples using established procedures.

• Measure and record properties such as viscosity, percent solids, and pH.

• Operate, clean, and care for laboratory equipment, including viscometers and precision balances.

• Compare results with specifications, identify unusual findings, and repeat or escalate testing when needed.

• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, sample logs, electronic records, and reports.

Mathematical Analysis and Microsoft Excel

• Use percentages, ratios, proportions, concentrations, and unit conversions in routine laboratory calculations.

• Enter, organize, and analyze laboratory data in Microsoft Excel.

• Create or modify basic formulas and spreadsheets for calculations, sample tracking, and reporting.

• Check calculations for accuracy and use results to identify trends or support recommendations.

Quality Control and Manufacturing Support

• Support quality and production teams by reviewing test results and helping investigate off-specification or inconsistent products.

• Communicate results, observations, and formulation changes clearly to appropriate team members.

• Help maintain specifications, procedures, and quality records.

• Contribute ideas that improve product consistency, reduce waste, or strengthen laboratory efficiency.

Important Activities / Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with research, production, and customer sample preparation and testing.

• Help improve laboratory methods, spreadsheets, and data-collection practices.

• Follow procedures for chemical handling, storage, labeling, disposal, and confidentiality.

• Continue learning about synthetic latex materials, testing methods, and manufacturing processes.

• Perform other related laboratory duties as assigned.

Skills and Specifications

Required Skills

• Working knowledge of chemistry gained through college coursework or laboratory experience.

• Comfort with routine mathematical calculations and basic data interpretation.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, including data entry and basic formulas.

• Attention to detail and commitment to accurate measurements, calculations, and records.

• Ability to follow procedures, manage assigned tasks, communicate clearly, and work with a team.

• Curiosity and willingness to learn new laboratory methods, chemical processes, and product requirements.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Coursework, internship, research, or work experience involving water-based systems, polymers, emulsions, adhesives, coatings, or related materials.

• Experience with common laboratory equipment or tests, such as balances, viscometers, pH measurements, or solids-content testing.

• Experience using Excel for calculations, data analysis, or sample tracking.

• Exposure to a manufacturing, quality, or industrial laboratory environment.

Education and Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field.

• Laboratory experience from coursework, research, internships, or employment.

• Ability to perform basic formulation calculations and interpret laboratory results with guidance.

• Experience with synthetic latex, water-based chemistry, formulation, or quality control is helpful but not required.

• An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Physical Requirements and Safety

• Work safely in laboratory and manufacturing areas and wear required personal protective equipment.

• Stand, sit, move through the laboratory, and perform routine repetitive tasks as needed.

• Handle samples, containers, and testing materials according to established safety and lifting guidelines.

• Follow chemical handling, storage, labeling, disposal, housekeeping, and hazard-reporting procedures.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person