R&D Lead Chemist

Summary: We are seeking an innovative and driven Coating Chemist to support the Franklynn mold release product line. Knowledge of industrial processes and surface reactive chemistry will lead to success in enhancing existing formulations, development of new formulations as well as improvements to manufacturing processes, cost optimization, and regulatory compliance improvements.

In this role, you will partner closely with Operations, Quality, Regulatory, and Sales to identify internal and external opportunities to drive improvements to high-performance coating solutions. This position will use their technical knowledge to research new chemicals, technologies, and processes to lead projects bringing the product line into the next generation of technical advancement.

This position will use their expertise to consult and guide on non-routine samples and changes. Essential Duties: Product Innovation & Development Develops new formulas and products, from concept to launch, as specified by the New Product Development process.

Key activities include new product development, competitive performance benchmarking, market opportunities, raw material sourcing, product stability testing, scale up, and assessment of regulatory compliance. Works with commercial team and customers to understand application details and define new product requirements.

Lead activities including competitive performance benchmarking, market opportunity analysis, raw material sourcing, product stability testing, scale-up, and regulatory compliance assessment. Evaluate existing product formulations against competitors to identify improvements in process efficiency, regulatory compliance, and cost reduction.

Develop testing processes that replicate customer applications and generate supporting data for product validation. Actively support the Change Control process for both new product launches and updates to existing products. Lead cross-functional project teams from concept through deployment.

Technical Expertise & Laboratory Leadership Develop, validate, and maintain analytical test methods and instrument calibration processes for R&D and QC. Maintain electronic and manual record-keeping systems for projects and customer samples.

Support Manufacturing and Quality in investigating production abnormalities, conducting root cause analyses on rejected batches, and presenting findings for Quality review prior to implementation of changes. Reviews customer issues to determine scope, root cause, containment and corrective actions as required.

Follow the AS9100 Quality Management System as it applies to R&D and the defined Quality System. Actively participate in and support the Laboratory Safety and Chemical Hygiene Program. Collaboration & Communication Work closely with commercial teams and customers to understand application requirements and define product specifications.

Stay current with emerging mold release and coating technologies through literature review and industry tradeshows. Communicate technical concepts and product benefits clearly to diverse audiences across the organization and externally. Manage multiple projects independently or collaboratively using the 80/20 philosophy.

Attend company-sponsored training and external seminars as required. Act in accordance with company policies, procedures, and corporate ethics. Perform other duties as assigned. Education, Experience & Other Competencies: B.S. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related field.

Minimum of 5 years in industrial chemical manufacturing environment. Minimum of 3 years of formulation experience with silicone, epoxy, and/or hydrocarbon chemistries in aqueous systems. Required expertise in formulation of coatings and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion systems.

Required expertise in GHS hazard identification and SDS authoring processes. Experience with elastomer chemistry used in injection or compression molding processes. Experience working under ISO 9001/AS 9100 Quality Management environments. ITW is an equal opportunity employer.

We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.