Chemist II

About the role

In 1989, Wikoff’s first continual improvement department was established, adopting a Total Quality Management approach. Over the years, the department has matured and expanded its vision to include not only oversight of the quality management system, but also training programs and employee safety while adopting other improvement methodologies such as lean and six sigma. Position Overview At Wikoff Color Corporation, we’re proud to be employee-owned, which means every team member has a stake in our success. We believe in building a workplace where people feel valued, empowered, and invested in the future. We are currently seeking a chemist for pigment dispersion R&D. This individual will primarily be tasked with doing the hands-on preparation and characterization of lab-scale pigment dispersions. Guidance and training will be provided. This will involve frequent weigh ups, proofing, color assessment, milling on a lab media mill, etc. The individual hired will also be expected to learn and assist with other team tasks as the need arises (weigh-ups, proofing, color matching, cleaning, waste-disposal, etc). There are many opportunities for career advancement on the team. Depending on competency demonstrated the individual may be entrusted with independent product development requests of varying complexity. This position will allow the opportunity to solve problems creatively and independently. The hired candidate will work closely with a small R&D team to make significant contributions.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop aqueous pigment dispersions for water flexo inks
• Independently manage projects and complete tasks in a timely manner
• Analyze raw materials and evaluate alternative components for performance and cost optimization
• Conduct laboratory testing, performance evaluations, and comparative analyses
• Document experimental results, formulation data, and technical findings
• Assist with lab upkeep – cleaning, waste disposal, organization
• Support pilot trials and scale-up activities in coordination with Production team
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, regulatory, and documentation standards

Key Deliverables

• Accurate and well-documented formulation development work
• Successful completion of assigned lab trials and validation activities
• Improved product performance, cost efficiency, or process stability
• Smooth technical support during product scale-up and commercialization
• Compliance with all laboratory and regulatory standards
• Reporting to work on time and in accordance with attendance policy

Reporting Structure

Reports To: R&D Director
Direct Reports: None

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Desired Experience and Competencies

• Experience in formulation or product development within ink, coatings, or chemical manufacturing
• Experience using or developing pigment dispersions or water-based inks
• Strong laboratory skills and familiarity with testing equipment and methodologies
• Experience documenting technical data
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Independent motivation to work with limited oversight

Working Conditions

Manufacturing / Lab / Office environment

Effort/Physical Demands: Ability to sit and stand for long periods of time; Lifting/pushing/pulling up to 25 lbs.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

Must work in accordance with Health and Safety regulations, Company Rules, Plant Rules, policies and procedures. Must use or wear equipment, protective devices, or certain clothing as required by the company.

Quality and Safety Contribution

This position contributes to a quality product by ensuring overall compliance to defined Product Specifications, the Quality Management System, and the Quality Policy. Additionally, this position promotes a safe work environment by complying with the defined Safety rules, GMP and regulations at all times.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and overtime opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k)
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Career development and training opportunities
• Clean, safe, and team-oriented work environment