Lead Development Chemist
About The Position
Lead Development Chemist responsible for managing special adhesives and sealants projects at the Adrian, MI manufacturing site. This role focuses on root cause analysis, commercial formula revisions, customer communication, and cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Quality, and Optima teams. The position supports growth initiatives in North America while maintaining existing customer accounts. Success requires strong communication, collaboration, and the ability to independently scope and execute projects. Experience with epoxy-amine, polyurethane, PVC plastisol, and waterborne latex chemistries is beneficial.
Requirements
- PhD in chemistry, polymer science, coatings science, material science, or physical/chemical engineering with 1–3 years of industrial experience, OR BS/MS in similar fields with 5–7 years of industrial experience
- Must have industry experience in adhesives and sealants to be considered.
- Demonstrated hands-on research and leadership skills
- Experience with root cause analysis methodologies
- Strong oral and written communication skills across all levels and functions
- Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams
- Experience designing and developing experiments based on statistical principles
- Self-starter with leadership and problem-solving capabilities
Nice To Haves
- Experience with epoxy-amine, polyurethane, PVC plastisol, and waterborne latex chemistries is beneficial.
- Experience in product or customer development environments is preferred
- Experience interacting with internal and external customers is a plus
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage special adhesives and sealants projects
- Conduct root cause analysis to resolve customer-reported issues
- Revise commercial formulas as needed
- Collaborate effectively with Operations, Quality, and Optima teams
- Facilitate product launches through involvement in the Secure Launch process
- Develop technical expertise in product scale-up and launch activities
- Build and maintain relationships with technical leaders, stakeholders, and commercial teams
- Present technologies, test reports, and strategies to internal and external customers
- Support company growth strategies and maintain existing accounts
- Travel domestically and internationally as needed (~10%)
Benefits
- Health
- Dental
- Life
- Retirement Plan
- Paid Vacation & Holidays
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Disability/Leave
- other Voluntary benefit offerings
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
