Rubber Process Development Chemist

About the role

The Rubber Process Development Chemist is a key member of the Research & Development (R&D) team and is responsible for developing and improving rubber compounds and processing methods for the Middlefield, Ohio facility.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Technical Manager in leading the development of new product innovations.
• Apply material and processing expertise to execute continuous improvement projects supporting the company’s WCM (World Class Manufacturing) strategy.
• Optimize existing rubber formulations and develop new formulations to meet assigned performance, cost, and processing targets.
• Evaluate new and alternative raw materials for suitability; monitor material performance and ensure consistent quality.
• Create and maintain raw material purchasing specifications.
• Monitor and analyze production processes from raw materials through finished goods.
• Support and guide efforts to resolve production and processing issues.
• Work with Quality to diagnose customer claim issues and identify corrective actions; follow Tarkett’s Management of Change (MOC) process for documenting changes.
• Lead assigned projects or project segments, including timeline creation, data analysis, reporting, and technical documentation.
• Support and guide efforts to resolve production and processing issues.
• Work hands-on in lab and production environments from development, testing, trials, and implementation of projects.
• Collaborate with external vendors, suppliers, and consultants to evaluate new technologies that may enhance product performance or manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, related field, or similar work experience.
• Knowledge of rubber chemistry and compounding principles.
• Minimum 5 years of technical experience in a rubber processing/lab environment; experience with mixers, calenders, and extrusion equipment is an advantage.
• Experience with rubber laboratory and processing equipment, including Rheometers, Mooney Viscometers, Tensometers, Mixers, Mills, and Presses.
• Solid scientific and technical foundation with strong analytical, critical thinking, and practical application skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Proven problem-solving ability using structured methodologies.
• Strong project management skills, including organization, documentation, and timeline management.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, related field, or similar work experience.

Skills

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Effective collaboration and problem-solving abilities.
• Project management and organizational skills.
• Hands-on experience in lab and production environments.
• Ability to work with external vendors, suppliers, and consultants.
• Knowledge of rubber chemistry and compounding principles.
• Experience with rubber laboratory and processing equipment.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package, competitive pay, and retirement plan options.

Pay

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Flexible work arrangements available.

Who we are

Tarkett is a worldwide leader in innovative flooring and sport surface solutions with 12,000 employees and 34 industrial sites. We offer a wide range of products including vinyl, linoleum, rubber, carpet, wood, laminate, artificial turf, and athletic tracks. We are committed to protecting the planet through our use of renewable energy and a closed-loop recycled water process, reducing greenhouse emissions and water consumption. As the only flooring company recognized by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, we are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint and implementing an eco-innovation strategy based on Cradle to Cradle® principles, fully aligned with our Tarkett Human-Conscious Design® approach.

What We Offer

A commitment that Safety is #1, Competitive benefits, pay, and retirement plan options!

Equal Opportunity Employer

We value diversity in backgrounds and in experiences and promote an inclusive workplace where all employees can perform at their best.