Principal Materials Scientist

About the role

Serve as the centralized technical authority on fundamental material science, driving the understanding of structure-property relationships to accelerate innovation across all R&D business groups. This role bridges theoretical polymer physics and chemistry with practical formulation, ensuring rapid, data-driven product development from benchtop to commercialization.

Responsibilities

Strategic R&D Acceleration - Define and build fundamental structure-property relationships to accelerate new product development across all core business units: Contact Adhesives, Silicon Coatings & Adhesives, Polyurethane & Polyurea Systems, and Epoxy Coatings. - Translate complex molecular interactions into predictable macroscopic performance metrics (e.g., abrasion resistance, flexibility, adhesion, and weatherability) to reduce formulation trial-and-error. - Identify synergistic technology platforms and raw materials that can be leveraged across different product lines to capture new market opportunities in roofing, building envelopes, and marine/industrial flooring. Advanced Analytical Leadership - Lead the strategic use of deep analysis equipment across the development labs to understand exactly why products perform the way they do. - Utilize advanced characterization tools, including Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometers, Gas Chromatographs (GC-MS), Differential Scanning Calorimeters (DSC), and Advanced Rheometers. - Confirm cure mechanisms, identify trace contaminants, analyze failures, and qualify complex new raw materials using chemical analysis. - Correlate advanced chemical analysis with mechanical performance testing derived from Universal Testing Machines (UTMs) analyzing stress-strain curves, modulus, and peel/lap shear adhesion. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Scale-Up - Act as the primary technical consultant to specialized R&D Managers/chemists, helping to resolve complex formulation roadblocks involving polymer/crosslinker systems, catalyst packages, and adhesion promoters. - Partner closely with the Manager of the Pilot Lab & Process Scale-Up to ensure that foundational molecular behaviors and reactive chemistries translate successfully from 1-liter benchtop batches to 20-50kg pilot batches. - Provide predictive risk analysis for process scale-up by analyzing mixing dynamics, exotherms, and temperature controls for complex reactive chemistries. Mentorship & Scientific Excellence - Foster a culture of scientific rigor, continuous learning, and advanced experimental design across the entire R&D organization. - Ensure all cross-functional development aligns with critical industry standards (e.g., ASTM standards for sealants and roof coatings) and evolving environmental regulations.

Requirements

- Education: PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related highly technical field. - Experience: 15+ years of progressive, advanced R&D experience in the specialty chemicals, coatings, adhesives, or elastomers industry. - Cross-Chemistry Expertise: Deep, proven understanding of multiple polymer chemistries, specifically including solvent-based rubbers, silicones, polyurethanes/polyureas, and epoxies. - Analytical Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in interpreting data from advanced thermal, rheological, and spectroscopic characterization equipment to build predictive structure-property models. - Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead without direct authority, acting as a high-level technical consultant and mentor to specialized R&D formulation teams.

Qualifications

- Experience in developing and optimizing formulations for various applications. - Knowledge of polymer chemistry, rheology, and material properties. - Strong analytical skills and experience with FTIR, GC-MS, DSC, and rheometer techniques. - Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment. - Excellent communication and presentation skills. - Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

- Proficient in advanced analytical techniques such as FTIR, GC-MS, DSC, and rheometry. - Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. - Excellent communication and mentoring abilities. - Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

- Competitive salary - Retirement Savings: Choose from 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings - Employee Stock Purchase Plan - Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance - Holistic Health & Well-being programs - Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care - Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts - Paid time off & paid holidays - Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity) - Educational Assistance Program

Pay

- Commensurate with experience

Schedule

- Full-time