PhD Chemical Engineer - Pulp and Paper Science
About The Position
Eastman Chemical Company is seeking a recent 2026 or upcoming 2027 PhD graduate in Chemical Engineering with emphasis on Paper and Pulp science. This role is based in Kingsport, Tennessee and will play a critical technical leadership role across product development, pilot plant operations, manufacturing support, and process scale‑up. This position is ideal for candidates with substantial hands‑on experience in cellulose ester chemistry, pulping or paper machine operations, fiber modification, coated paper development, sustainable packaging, or mill process optimization.
Requirements
- PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field with emphasis on Paper and Pulp Technology.
- Strong commitment to safe operation in lab and pilot settings.
- Working knowledge of paper and pulp, polymer esters, or related chemical process technology.
- Demonstrated experience in Fiber chemistry, product development, or process improvements.
- Strong understanding of esterification chemistry, polymer reaction systems, and fundamental process engineering.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis and data‑driven process optimization.
- Ability to independently design and execute complex experiments and plant trials.
- Demonstrated ability to improve product quality, increase production rates, reduce variability, and optimize mill operations.
- Desire to engage well with technicians/operators, peers, and management and to collaborate to find innovative solutions.
Nice To Haves
- Substantial hands‑on experience in cellulose ester chemistry, pulping or paper machine operations, fiber modification, coated paper development, sustainable packaging, or mill process optimization.
Responsibilities
- Lead development and scale‑up of cellulose ester products and processes across lab, pilot plant, and full‑scale manufacturing environments.
- Apply engineering and chemistry fundamentals to improve reaction systems, optimize assets, and drive step‑change operational performance.
- Design and execute plant trials, experiments, and capability studies to reduce raw‑material usage, improve yield, enhance quality, and increase capacity.
- Lead pilot plant campaigns, new equipment commissioning, and scale‑up programs across multiple business areas.
- Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, technicians, and business teams to advance new product and process initiatives.
- Use statistical analysis, Six Sigma tools, and data‑driven insights to identify opportunities and deliver measurable improvements.
- Communicate technical strategies, experimental results, and recommendations to technology, manufacturing, business, and leadership stakeholders.
- Promote and model strong safety practices in all laboratory, pilot, and manufacturing activities.
Benefits
- Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities
- Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage
- Health Savings Account option
- Voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection
- Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
- 401(k) with a company match
- Additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman
- Eleven paid holidays
- One personal day
- Paid time off
- Paid vacation
- Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
