Applications Specialist, R&D

ICP Group • Lynchburg, VA

3d • $70,000 - $85,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Innovative Chemical Products Group (ICP Group) is hiring an Applications Specialist to work in a laboratory at its Lynchburg, Virginia plant. The role conducts research on new and existing product formulas with minimal supervision and occasionally travels with sales to support proper product use and application. Projects include pre-qualifying R&D formulas; supporting customers and sales with application testing, development, and new business opportunities; evaluating and reporting on competitive products; and trialing formulas to gather product-specific properties. The specialist designs and documents projects and is familiar with product application and performance testing methods, quality-control procedures, and factory processes. The position may also involve sample preparation and occasional R&D development support.

Products supported include solvent-based contact adhesives, spray contact adhesives, water-based adhesives, and air-assisted spray adhesives, for applications such as roofing, laminates, shoe repair, and in-line processes. The role is based in Lynchburg, VA, and involves travel 10–20% of the time, laboratory and production-line work, and work in a chemical manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• One to two years of quality-control experience.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to multitask, close the loop, and follow specific instructions, work instructions, and procedures.
• Self-motivated, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Ability to communicate effectively with peers and management.
• Ability to work in a non-temperature-regulated environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Aptitude to learn and use other computer systems and software as needed.
• Math ability sufficient to perform necessary functions.
• Ability to work in a chemical manufacturing environment involving solvents and other hazardous materials.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and meet other physical requirements of regular duties, including prolonged periods standing at a laboratory bench and/or production line.
• Ability to work with common classes of chemicals used in the adhesives industry.
• Willingness to travel 10–20% of the time.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Follow plant safety requirements, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment at the jobsite.
• Follow company quality-system requirements, including design control and application testing.
• Manage or lead less-complex developmental projects and provide regular updates to relevant stakeholders.
• Perform small-scale manufacturing batches and experimental formulas, including filling cylinders as needed.
• Test and apply adhesives—including viscosity, solids, bond, open time, SAFT, and peel testing—on selected substrates according to established procedures or instructions.
• Prepare reports describing test methods, results, and recommendations, and coordinate their delivery with R&D and sales.
• Represent ICP during technical service calls and accompany sales on onsite visits with external vendors.
• Acquire, record, file, and organize data and related materials, electronically or otherwise.
• Organize testing data in Excel or other applications and present it to others.
• Lead and manage technical service requests in support of the commercial team.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the laboratory and related work areas.
• Maintain chemical storage and the laboratory environment in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Complete assignments and projects to the best of one’s ability using established procedures.
• Assist QC and Production as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Annual bonus eligibility.
• Progressive paid time off policy.
• 401(k) employer contribution plan, with eligibility beginning the first of the month after 90 days of employment.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance packages.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED