Senior Coatings Chemist

Overview

This role will join a team of researchers in developing new formulations of protective and anti-corrosion coatings for metals. We support long-term federal research contracts in aerospace and ground vehicle support.

Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and execute complex laboratory experiments for product development and long-term R&D initiatives, ensuring scientific rigor and reliable data generation.
• Lead formulation and performance evaluation of protective coating formulations, including mechanical performance, chemical resistance, and corrosion evaluation.
• Serve as technical lead for assigned product areas, guiding formulation strategies, troubleshooting performance issues, and contributing to long-term technology development.
• Conduct structured coating failure analysis using analytical, mechanical, and environmental testing methods; translate findings into actionable improvements for products and processes.
• Identify opportunities for innovation in materials, processes, and test methodologies, contributing to technology roadmaps and strategic R&D planning.
• Oversee laboratory operations, maintain a safe, well‑organized, and compliant work environment in accordance with Elinor Safety protocols and industry best practices.
• Contribute to technical discussions and scientific meetings, provide expertise, interpret complex data, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Generate, document, and communicate detailed laboratory data, technical reports, and project updates to internal stakeholders and external partners ensuring clarity and scientific accuracy.
• Mentor earlier career chemists and technicians in laboratory techniques, experimental design, and coatings testing methodologies.
• Manage multiple concurrent laboratory projects, tracking progress, and adjusting plans in response to evolving technical and customer needs.

Qualifications

Minimum Education/Experience: M.S. in polymers and coatings, chemistry, or a closely related field. 10+ years of progressively responsible industrial laboratory-based experience in coatings formulation, testing, and characterization.

• Design, formulation, characterization, and performance evaluation of coating systems.
• Operation and interpretation of data from coatings laboratory instrumentation used for analytical, mechanical, and environmental testing.
• Data interpretation skills and experience using scientific, statistical, and technical software for analysis, reporting, and project documentation.
• Technical communication, including authoring detailed laboratory reports and presenting experimental results to cross-functional teams.
• Managing priorities, coordinating multiple laboratory projects, and adapting to changing technical requirements.
• To safely and consistently perform daily work in a chemical laboratory environment, including regular use of chemicals, instruments, and specialized equipment.

Classification and Compensation

Full Time/Benefited. Salary starting at $115k+, depending on experience.

• 100% paid employee healthcare, vision, dental, disability and life insurance.
• Starting PTO is 16 days annually with 14 paid holidays and 12 paid sick days.
• 401k match.
• Voluntary HSA, Flex, Employee Assistance Program and more.