Product Development Chemist

Job description

The Research & Development Research Chemist leads projects including development of new products, improvements of existing products, and scientific support through laboratory studies and analyses of results.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

· Plan project-related activities by taking into account requested tasks and deadlines.

· Work independently to manage projects and product testing.

· Accomplish assigned tasks, analyze results and communicate findings in written progress reports.

· Plan appropriate next steps on projects with little guidance. Seek guidance from Manager as needed.

· Signify requirements in material resources (addition, replacement) to Manager.

· Support Quality and Production teams with challenges and product scale ups, as needed.

· Plan and prioritize assigned laboratory activities and tasks according to team objectives.

· Design and carry out required lab experiments to study initial feasibility through final process optimization, application testing and shelf life studies.

· Maintain a neat and accurate notebook of all experimental data.

· Review and analyze results, perform tasks and make decisions independently, or with team members as needed.

· Write thorough reports on progress of projects.Provide peer review support to colleauges for project reports.

· Propose solutions to problems encountered during project evolution.

· Calibrate laboratory equipment as scheduled.

· Maintain desk and work environment in a neat condition.

· Conduct all work in full compliance with company HS&E regulations.

· Assist in preparation of technical literature.

· Conduct literature searches as required to review technical and patent issues.

· Work independently, as well as in team settings, with Product Management, Sales, Technical, Marketing and Production to identify, justify and commercialize R&D projects for new products, cost reductions, improving product quality, and ensuring HS&E compliance.

· Work with Product Management, Sales and Technical to help resolve customer application issues using our products.

· Prepare process or laboratory operating procedures.

· Establish and maintain relationships with other SOPREMA manufacturing sites worldwide to provide and receive technical support as needed.

· Contribute to the raw material qualification approval process.

· Determine tasks sequencing with respect to time and equipment constraints.

· Use a creative approach in problem solving; favor solutions that have a long-lasting impact.

· Meet with current and potentially new raw material suppliers to continue projects’ forward progression through investigation of alternate products.

· Potential to provide daily supervision and task management for R&D Technician.

· Special projects as outlined by Manager

Minimum Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, plastics, rubber, textile or related field, preferably chemistry.

· Experience in formulating in a chemical Research & Development laboratory or related product development, with preferred emphasis in asphalt modification, acrylics, PMMA, polyurethanes, polyethers, silicones or other liquid resins/coatings.

· Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred, but not required.

· Excellent spoken and written communication abilities.

· Must be able to plan, manage and prioritize multiple work assignments while achieving high throughput and meeting communicated deadlines.

· Desire for continuing education (e.g., Master’s Degree, Stage Gate process, Design of Experiments, Project Management, Time Management, etc.)

· Good computer skills, be action/results oriented, pay close attention to detail and demonstrate strong organizational and interpersonal skills

· Must have the ability to work effectively with all other levels of the organization and have a demonstrated orientation to teamwork principles.

· Willlingness to travel up to 7 days per year.

· Willingness to accept limited evening and weekend work to accomplish project tasks.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Demands:

· Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

· Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

· Ability to work in laboratory environment, including related chemicals and equipment.

· Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

· Ability to handle and lift heavy construction materials.

· Must be able to visit job sites that include the need to climb a ladder to access a roof, trench, or other locations with restricted physical access, as needed.

Reports to the Senior Chemist.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• What is your salary requirement to make a job change?
• Do you have experience in Product Development?
• Do you have experience with data analysis and report writing to accurately communicate findings, as it relates to R&D testing?
• Do you have high attention to detail?
• Do you have experience with asphalt or asphaltic products?

Ability to Relocate:

• Wadsworth, OH 44281: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person