What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research and Development Chemist position at Chase Corporation?
About Chase Corporation
Founded in 1946 we have grown to become a global specialty chemicals company that is a leading manufacturer of protective materials for high-reliability applications across diverse market sectors.
Today we employ nearly 800 people and continue to grow and strengthen our business by employing a related diversification strategy that combines organic growth initiatives with strategic acquisitions.
Based in Westwood, Massachusetts, USA we operate manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia and continue to invest in our capabilities in order to deliver value to our global customer base demands.
In November 2023, Chase Corporation joined KKR’s portfolio of companies, granting every employee an ownership stake. To learn more about the KKR Industrials team and its innovative approach to employee engagement and ownership, visit the KKR Industrials LinkedIn page or YouTube channel, where you can find videos showcasing how this model is implemented across various portfolio companies.
Role Overview
This role is responsible for the research, development, and commercialization of adhesive, sealant, and coating formulations. The position involves close collaboration across departments, particularly with Operations, to ensure successful product scale-up and launch. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, technical expertise, and experience managing projects from concept through commercialization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead R&D efforts to formulate and commercialize new adhesive, sealant, and coating products in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and technical documentation; provide regular updates and presentations internally and externally.
- Deliver technical support to Marketing, Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and other development teams as needed.
- Serve as a subject matter expert in raw materials, processes, testing methodologies, and industry trends relevant to adhesives, sealants, and coatings.
- Conduct literature and patent reviews; present findings to internal stakeholders.
- Navigate product development within the stage-gate process and maintain design control documentation.
- Present technical data and project outcomes to R&D and other internal departments.
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders across U.S. and European operations.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 3 years of professional R&D experience in a growing organization
- Strong knowledge of chemistries such as silicone, epoxy, urethane, and UV-curing systems; familiarity with structure-property relationships.
- Hands-on experience with analytical tools such as FT-IR, DSC, TGA, GC-MS, and GPC, as well as various physical property testing methods.
- Proficiency in statistical tools and experimental design (DOE) for formulation screening and optimization.
- Highly organized with excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Adaptable and self-driven in a fast-paced, customer- and operations-responsive environment.
Education
- MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Science with 6 years of relevant experience or PhD in the same fields with 3 years of experience.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $80,000 - $100,000
