Application Development Scientist - Inks

Eastman•Kingsport, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Eastman is a global specialty materials company founded in 1920, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through innovative products and sustainable practices. This role is for an experienced Inks Applications Scientist with over 10 years of experience in developing, formulating, and commercializing inks. The position requires deep technical knowledge of ink formulations, raw materials, printing techniques, and substrates, along with strategic leadership for innovation, cost optimization, and environmental stewardship. The scientist will act as a subject matter expert, collaborating with R&D, marketing, sales, and customers to deliver high-performance ink materials that meet regulatory and market demands. This role is part of Eastman's technology organization, supporting the Coatings business, and reports to the Group Leader Coatings Applications Development in Kingsport, TN, USA, as part of a global team.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related field
At least 10 years of professional work experience in inks development
Experience qualifying new inks formulations
Technical understanding of different inks technologies including, inkjet, flexo, gravure, etc.
Proven expertise in ink performance testing and requirements
Knowledge of emerging trends, sustainability principles, and regulatory compliance for inks.
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as a team member with both internal and external partners
Willingness and ability to travel approximately 20%, mainly within North America is required

Nice To Haves

Experience engaging multiple points along the value chain is highly desired
Project leadership experience preferred including short-term and long-term project planning and participation on cross-functional teams
Able to relocate to Kingsport, TN

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership and mentorship on Inks properties, printing/application processes (e.g., Inkjet, Flexo, Gravure), performance testing and application requirements for various substrates.
Lead customer-facing projects regarding the design, development, and optimization of ink materials and formulations, including resins, solvents, additives, etc.
Drive innovation in sustainable solutions by evaluating new raw materials, bio-based solutions, and recyclable/compostable technologies.
Develop and maintain detailed testing specifications, technical documentation, and compliance requirements tailored to inks.
Engage the packaging value chain to discover needs across multiple applications and prioritize opportunities for development work.
Influence decision makers at customers to adopt new solutions.
Monitor industry trends and regulatory developments related to inks and sustainability to inform strategic decisions.
Partner with cross functional teams across R&D, marketing, sales and business development teams to deliver new business growth.