Polymer Scientist

Position Overview

The Senior Materials Scientist is responsible for developing new polymer formulations while working closely with internal functions such as Technical Service, Sales, Marketing, Product Management, and Manufacturing, as well as external customers. This role owns the development of all required instructions, including bill of materials, inspection plans, and key manufacturing process parameters, to ensure that product quality and consistency are maintained.

Key Responsibilities

• Leads development of polymer formulations to meet customer specifications and internal standards.
• Applies appropriate theories and scientific principles to create optimal new products.
• Specifies and, as required, develops tests to ensure solutions meet or exceed customer expectations.
• Recommends specifications for raw materials when necessary.
• Audits raw material suppliers to ensure consistent quality.
• Provides project management for platform development and large-scale programs.
• Collaborates with Manufacturing to set target process parameters affecting product performance and quality.
• Offers assistance and consultation to Technical Service to resolve product performance issues and processing problems.
• Presents technical papers at industry events and conferences to support new product launches and promote thought leadership.
• Visits customers to present technical findings and introduce new products and capabilities.
• Provides technical leadership within the organization through consultations and meetings.
• Works safely and promotes safety through raw material reviews and improved lab practices.

Required Qualifications

• 4-year technical degree in engineering or chemistry with a focus on polymers or materials.
• 3+ years of related experience in the plastics or polymers industry, specifically in product or formulation development for polymer applications.
• Working knowledge of polymers and formulation techniques.
• Ability to develop and expand understanding and knowledge of products and raw materials.
• Experience using design of experiment techniques and other statistical tests.
• Excellent active listening skills to efficiently identify problems and implement customer-focused solutions.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Ability to ask probing questions to understand product and market opportunities and translate these requirements into development efforts.
• Capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively multi-task.
• Strong project management skills.
• Ability to function effectively in both team and matrix environments.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Strong computer skills in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated success in new product development and product launches.

Preferred Qualifications

• Publication of technical papers in industry conferences is a plus.
• Granted patents are a plus.