R&D SYNTHESIS SPECIALIST

Mallard Creek Polymers, LLC•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

Mallard Creek Polymers is seeking a qualified R&D Synthesis Specialist to join our team. Who you are: Our ideal teammate... Will lead the design, formulation, and scale-up of innovative emulsion polymer products, including acrylic, vinyl-acrylic, and styrene-butadiene latexes. This role bridges laboratory synthesis and manufacturing implementation, ensuring smooth transition from research to full commercialization. The Specialist will collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, technical, and commercial teams to optimize recipes, improve processes, and deliver high-quality products that meet customer and market requirements.

Requirements

BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science required, MS or higher preferred.
Minimum 10 years in the chemical industry with at least 5+ years in emulsion polymer chemistry (styrene-butadiene preferred; pressure reactions experience a plus).
Proven experience in product/process development, scale-up, and optimization in a chemical production environment.
Strong knowledge of latex product chemistry, process design, and control systems.
Proficiency in analytical techniques for problem-solving and recipe/process improvement.
Demonstrated ability to design and implement robust solutions for complex product mixes.
Strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects, and work independently or in teams.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build trusted relationships internally and externally.
Leadership and decision-making capabilities; ability to mentor and inspire others.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Safety-conscious and able to comply with all PPE and safety regulations.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds
Laboratory duties include standing at a lab bench for extended periods of time, bending, lifting and reaching.
Must be able to wear the required personal protective equipment
This position requires frequent travel to customers and industry events; approximately 25% of the time
Monday- Friday, 8 hour work days

Responsibilities

Design and execute synthesis and commercial processes for new emulsion polymer products in a timely and efficient manner.
Develop and implement test methods to evaluate product performance and compliance with product and process specifications.
Plan and manage projects related to product performance, recipe/process improvement, and equipment design for new product scale-up and existing product optimization.
Collaborate with manufacturing and external partners to ensure effective scale-up and ongoing production while safeguarding intellectual property.
Apply research principles and models to implement new products/processes, resolve recipe and process issues, improve productivity, reduce costs, and maintain quality.
Identify, communicate and implement opportunities for product and process enhancements through quality and productivity improvements.
Prepare technical reports, summarize research results, and recommend changes.
Communicate project progress and results to team members and business leadership.
Interface with customers and internal stakeholders to support technical inquiries and product development goals.
Work independently and in cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration across R&D, manufacturing, and commercial functions.
Mentor and/or manage technical staff and contribute to organizational capability development
Customers facing interaction to solve problems using MCP products
Collaborates with R&D Colleagues, Sales and Marketing
Works with production and QC functions to establish expectations for products for which this position is responsible.