Polymer Scientist
About The Position
Hexion is seeking a Polymer Scientist to join our Research & Development team with a first project supporting the advancement of high-performance superplasticizers for concrete applications. This role will focus on the design and development of innovative polymer technologies that enable enhanced workability, durability, and sustainability in cementitious systems. As part of Hexion’s innovation-driven culture, this position will contribute to the development of differentiated solutions aligned with evolving customer needs and low-carbon construction trends. The successful candidate will collaborate across R&D, technical service, and manufacturing to translate laboratory discoveries into commercial products.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or M.S. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
- 5+ years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (industrial or academic)
- Strong understanding of water-soluble polymers, dispersants, or surfactant systems
- Broad polymer synthesis and compounding experience with condensation and free-radical/chain-transfer polymerizations; knowledge of polymer interactions with inorganic oxides or silicates is a plus
- Demonstrated ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex technical problems including the use of AI assistants to accelerate development
- Experience with scale-up, pilot plant, and/or manufacturing environments
- Effective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment
Nice To Haves
- Experience in construction chemicals, particularly superplasticizers, concrete admixtures or general knowledge of cement chemistry, hydration behavior, and rheology of cementitious systems
- Interest or experience in sustainable materials, including technologies supporting low-carbon cement systems
- Effective in working through multi-site collaborative research program
Responsibilities
- Design, synthesize, and optimize water-soluble polymers to meet targeted performance criteria
- Establish structure–property relationships to improve dispersion efficiency, slump retention, and cement compatibility across diverse formulations
- Plan and execute experimental programs to support new product development, line extensions, and cost/performance optimization
- Evaluate polymer performance in cementitious systems in collaboration with application development teams
- Utilize analytical techniques (GPC/SEC, NMR, FTIR, rheology, etc.) to characterize polymers and guide development decisions
- Partner with process development and manufacturing teams to support scale-up, process robustness, and commercialization efforts
- Engage with technical service and commercial teams to understand customer requirements and translate them into R&D solutions
- Maintain detailed documentation, prepare technical reports, and communicate results to cross-functional stakeholders
- Monitor competitive technologies, patents, and industry trends in construction chemicals and specialty polymers
- Adhere to Hexion’s safety, health, environmental, and quality standards in all activities
Benefits
- Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer
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
