R&D Specialist III - Paint & Coatings

AkzoNobel•Columbus, OH

25d•$70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The R&D Specialist III is responsible for the execution of specific project phases or lab work request under the supervision of a project leader or manager. This position will take a lead role in defining success criteria and goals for the project in addition to delegating work to support staff as needed.The R&D Specialist III supports the goals of the business as directed by a project lead or manager. This position will oversee the work on technical workstreams such as new product introduction, raw material changes, product testing, and root cause analysis.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree with 2-5 years’ experience in research and development in a laboratory setting, preferably with a Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical engineering degree.
Excellent background in chemistry/polymers.
Excellent verbal and written communication.
Available to travel, as necessary.
Set an example of safe use of common materials and equipment in the lab; able to instruct others on the same use
Demonstrate a continuous improvement mindset toward working safely and innovation
Take full ownership of assigned projects to deliver on commitments
Works independently without direct supervision while also being invested in team goals
Own personal and career development; proactively seeks development opportunities
Approach each day as an opportunity to discover and grow

Responsibilities

Manage the assigned Lab Work Request (LWR) projects to include timeline and planning on a weekly to monthly timescale.
Modify formulations based on customer application conditions in order to achieve the desired application performance and film properties.
Design test methods to replicate end use along with determining a root cause of product field performance problems.
Participate and/or contribute expertise with cross-functional initiatives.
Summarize testing results and recommend next steps for formula changes or development.
Consistently provide input on project progression, making the necessary changes to keep all project(s) on planned target delivery dates.
Prepare detailed project reports for presentation to internal and external stakeholders.
Analyze and resolve work issues/concerns and assist co-workers with problem solving.
Travel as needed for product launches and/or customer support.