Job Title: Formulation Chemist

Job Description

Perform R&D formulation to develop new products and formulas for customers. Work with customers and vendors to scope out projects, perform small scale batching and formulation, and benchmark testing on formulas to determine viability. Use both analytical and physical testing of formulas to determine the best statistical analysis using Minitab to have objective data to support which product is best. Use the scientific process to determine at the molecular level which raw materials, elements, and compounds will produce the best formula for the specific application. Record all laboratory data and analyze data for the R&D Leader.

Responsibilities

• Perform R&D formulation to develop new products and formulas for customers.
• Work with customers and vendors to scope out projects.
• Perform small scale batching and formulation.
• Perform benchmark testing on formulas to determine viability.
• Use both analytical and physical testing of formulas to determine the best statistical analysis using Minitab.
• Determine at the molecular level which raw materials, elements, and compounds will produce the best formula for the specific application.
• Record all laboratory data and analyze data for the R&D Leader.
• Perform DOE (Design of Experiments) and Statistical Analysis to prove which formula is best.
• Engage in hands-on formulation/batching and associated lab work such as particle size analyzers, XRF, etc.

Essential Skills

• Formulation
• Synthesis
• Chemical Reaction
• Chemistry
• Wet Chemistry
• Paints and Coatings
• Pigments
• Polymers
• Urethanes
• Strong level of initiative and growth mindset
• Ability to speak up, ask questions, and bring ideas to the table
• Passion for chemistry

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with adhesive, epoxy, polymer, polyurethane, pigment, resin
• Proficiency in DOE (Design of Experiments) and Statistical Analysis
• Ability to work with particle size analyzers and XRF

Work Environment

Working in a pigments/coatings lab where you will perform testing and small batching of different formulas. 90 to 95% of the day is spent in the lab doing R&D work with some time in the office for documentation/administrative work. The schedule is Monday through Friday on the 1st shift, with some flexibility on start time but typically ranging from 7 a.m. to 4:30/5:00/5:30/6:00 p.m. Fridays can be shorter days. You will work with the VP of R&D, other lab technicians, and potentially another higher-level technician or chemist. Some of the pigments and coatings have a paint-like smell, so candidates must be comfortable working in this environment.