Chemist

Salary: $90-$110K Base

Location: Niles, Michigan

Job Title: Chemist

Reporting to: VP Technology

Job Purpose: Collaborate with R&D and commercial teams to develop innovative coatings chemistries. Create high-performance paints and coatings for various markets, such as military, industrial, aerospace, marine, and forestry.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: - Conduct new product development, including formulation, application, and testing of paints and coatings. - Partner with customers and the commercial team to understand market-specific needs. - Collaborate with commercial and technical service teams to launch and scale new products. - Work with external technology partners to commercialize new chemistries. - Drive projects to completion and produce high-quality scientific work in a fast-paced environment. - Communicate results through written reports, technical presentations, and project updates aimed at diverse audiences. - Simulate customer production conditions to troubleshoot issues and enhance product launch success. - Utilize root cause analysis tools to resolve manufacturing and field challenges. - Provide technical expertise and troubleshooting support to maximize product quality while minimizing costs. - Stay updated on new technologies by engaging with suppliers and reviewing relevant literature. - Develop test reports, product data sheets, and other technical documentation.

Qualifications: - Experience with a wide range of coatings technologies; familiarity with moisture cure systems is a plus. - Background in industrial or military segment formulations preferred. - Experiential collaboration with external technology partners, including universities and government labs. - Proven experience in navigating MIL-SPEC and government approval processes. - 3-5 years of experience in laboratory science, research, or new product development preferred. - Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field; advanced technical degree preferred.

Physical Requirements: - Ability to sit, stand, and perform manual operations in a laboratory setting. - Full range of motion required. - Average or above-average visual color acuity.

Authority: Formulate and develop QC requirements for new and existing products.