Product Development Chemist

Momentive•Friendly, WV

22h

About The Position

As a Product Development Chemist on our Urethane Additives (UA) Technology Team, you will play a key role in developing the next generation of materials used in polyurethane slabstock foam. In this role, you will design, synthesize, and evaluate new additive technologies that enhance foam performance across a wide range of applications—from comfort products such as bedding and furniture, to highly technical applications in automotive, medical, and specialty markets. You will work hands-on in the lab to formulate, test, and optimize new chemistries while collaborating with a global R&D network to bring innovative products from concept through commercialization. Your work will directly contribute to expanding Momentive’s portfolio of urethane additives and strengthening our position in the polyurethane market. Beyond development work, you will also help introduce new technologies to the market by partnering with technical service, commercial teams, and customers across North America. In this capacity, you will provide technical insight and application support for our existing slabstock foam additive portfolio, helping customers optimize formulations and solve real-world challenges in foam manufacturing. This role offers the opportunity to combine hands-on chemistry, product innovation, and customer collaboration, allowing you to see the direct impact of your work from the laboratory bench to real-world applications used every day. About the Location (Friendly) Immerse yourself in the charm of Friendly, WV, a welcoming community nestled in the Mid-Ohio Valley. This tranquil town boasts a low cost of living, peaceful environment, and access to the Appalachian region's outdoor beauty. Explore hiking trails, cast a line in local waters, or visit charming festivals and historical sites. Friendly offers top-notch education and healthcare, with additional amenities nearby, and distinct seasons provide year-round enjoyment. Embrace local culture and become part of this close-knit community.

Requirements

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or Chemistry with 0-3+ years of job exp Or M.S. with 3+ years polymer-related product development and customer technical service experience
Demonstrated skills in organic and/or polymer chemistry. Familiarity with standard laboratory techniques, including structural characterization and related analytical techniques.
High interest for applied sciences, industrial processes and new product development activities from laboratory and pilot scale
Willingness to travel up to 20% to learn first-hand from customers their needs for the products under development.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects simultaneously and work in a cross-functional and global team environment.
Good oral and written communications skills in English

Nice To Haves

Doctorate or Master´s degree in Chemistry or Polymer Science
5+ years R&D experience in new products development and pilot scale testing
Experience in Polyurethane foam technology and additives
Experience in surfactant applications and characterization
Self-motivated individual with high level of technical curiosity

Responsibilities

Lead laboratory development projects from concept through pilot-scale evaluation. You will design and execute experiments focused on the synthesis, characterization, and performance testing of new urethane additive technologies, translating laboratory discoveries into scalable product solutions.
Maintain the highest safety standards in all laboratory activities. You will follow and promote rigorous safety practices while ensuring compliance with local regulations and company EHS policies. As part of a collaborative R&D environment, you will actively contribute to maintaining a strong culture of safety within the team.
Own and drive assigned New Product Development & Introduction (NPDI) projects. You will apply disciplined project management practices to move projects forward efficiently—managing timelines, coordinating cross-functional input, and ensuring key milestones are achieved on schedule.
Collaborate closely with the global Slabstock Technology team. You will maintain strong working relationships across the organization, aligning your work with global R&D priorities and adjusting project activities to support shared strategic objectives.
Partner directly with selected slabstock foam customers across North America. You will help introduce newly developed urethane additive technologies into commercial applications, providing technical guidance and building strong customer relationships that support successful product adoption.
Contribute to the development of intellectual property. You will identify innovative breakthroughs and support the preparation of invention disclosures and other documentation to protect and strengthen the company’s IP portfolio.
Support supply chain resilience efforts by assisting in the qualification of alternative suppliers for key raw materials used in slabstock foam additives, ensuring product continuity and reliability.
Represent the company within the broader technical community. You may participate in industry conferences, technical seminars, and exhibitions, sharing insights, engaging with external partners, and strengthening the company’s presence within the polyurethane industry.

Benefits

Health, dental & vision insurance, including critical illness coverage and optional orthodontia coverage.
Paid parental leave for the birth of a child; adoption and surrogacy reimbursement.
Short term disability with 100% base salary coverage.
Company funded counseling (EAP) and assistance finding care for children, parents, or pets.
25 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) plus paid holidays.
Additional time off with years of service.
401k savings plan with 5% employer match plus additional contribution based on years of service.
Student debt pay-off program.
Professional development programs and courses.
Wellness programs and financial education.