Job Title: R&D Chemist

Job Description

The R&D Chemist is responsible for formulating innovative products within the Graphic Arts industry. This includes working with UV and aqueous inks, coatings, adhesives, and fountain solutions for lithographic inks. The role involves developing new products, providing technical support to customers, and collaborating with the Sales and Quality departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop new products based on customer, company, and market needs.
• Organize and maintain product development records and data files.
• Assist in transitioning formulations from lab bench to pilot scale and commercial production.
• Conduct lab bench work for formulating and testing products.
• Utilize analytical and physical testing equipment for product development, troubleshooting, and investigating customer claims.
• Recommend new equipment necessary for project completion.
• Effectively communicate product needs and opportunities with third parties.
• Secure intellectual property through patent applications and safeguarding trade secrets.
• Work as part of cross-functional teams within an international division.
• Use existing and emerging technologies to design value-added products that drive business growth.

Essential Skills

• BS degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related science.
• 5 years of experience in Coatings and/or Ink R&D, ideally within the Graphic Arts industry.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to differentiate color nuances.
• Hands-on experience with UV-curable and water-based inks, coatings, and adhesives.
• Knowledge of photoinitiators, resin-monomer systems, additives, aqueous resin solutions, and acrylic emulsion polymers.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in the graphic arts industry and various printing applications.
• Experience with dry pigments and troubleshooting dispersions.
• Knowledge of fountain solution formulation is a plus.

Work Environment

Work will be conducted in a brand new laboratory and manufacturing facility equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and equipment. The role involves regular lab bench work and collaboration with cross-functional teams. The environment is designed to foster innovation and support the development of cutting-edge products.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $45.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Gaffney,SC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 2, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $38 - $45