R&D- Chemist II

About the Role

This position is responsible for Product Development of moderately complex products, Design and experiment, and perform technical base investigation in developing products within the Performance Coatings Group- Automotive team. The individual will have opportunities to gain experience in broad Automotive coating technologies, demonstrate leadership, and create companywide impact on new product developments. This role is not hybrid and will be located at Sherwin-Williams Morikis Global Technology Center located at 6745 Miller Road, Brecksville, OH 44141.

Responsibilities

• Develop, formulate, and optimize automotive refinish primers, sealers, undercoats, and related coating products.
• Lead and execute new product development projects from concept through commercialization.
• Improve existing formulations to enhance performance, quality, cost, manufacturability, and sustainability.
• Prepare laboratory samples and conduct formulation work, including raw material evaluation, mixing, milling, and spray application.
• Perform coating application and testing activities, including performance evaluations and benchmarking studies.
• Analyze, organize, and interpret experimental data using statistical methods and Design of Experiments (DOE) techniques.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure timely documentation of test results, observations, and conclusions.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and project updates for stakeholders and management.
• Collaborate effectively with R&D, Analytical, Applications, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Marketing, Regulatory, and Color teams to advance projects and resolve technical challenges.
• Provide technical support for product scale-up, manufacturing issues, quality improvement initiatives, and raw material qualification.
• Develop Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Product Data Sheets (PDS), and other technical documentation while ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.
• Manage projects, establish priorities, and recommend project continuation, redirection, or termination based on technical and business factors.
• Mentor and support junior scientists and technicians to promote technical growth and team success.
• Demonstrate strong organizational, communication, and project management skills while working independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, laboratory procedures, and environmental health and safety requirements.
• Support additional technical and organizational responsibilities as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment without needing sponsorship for employment work visa status now or in the future (e.g., OPT, CPT, H1B, EB-1, etc.)
• Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math field.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on laboratory experience in coatings, adhesives, or related chemical products.
• General knowledge of coating chemistry, performance testing, and application techniques.
• Experience with 2K polyurethane coating systems and associated application technologies.
• Proven ability to manage projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Formulation experience and understanding of coating technologies.
• Experience developing automotive refinish products, particularly primers, sealers, undercoats, and related coating technologies.
• Working knowledge of reactive coating chemistries, including urethanes, epoxies, and other crosslinking systems.
• M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).
• Experience applying Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) methodologies to product development.
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and communicate recommendations to senior management.

Pay

This position is eligible for bonus based on performance and subject to the terms of the Company's applicable plans. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case and will impact where actual compensation may fall within the stated wage range. The wage range listed for this role takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions including skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled.

Schedule

Travel Requirements: 10%