Scientist I, R&D (Polymers, Coatings & Biomaterials)

Edwards Lifesciences • Alton, IL

11d • Onsite

About The Position

Edwards Lifesciences Polymers & Textiles Center of Excellence (CoE) is seeking a Scientist I to support polymers, coatings, and biomaterials research and development activities for medical device products and processes. This role contributes to laboratory-based investigations, data analysis, and technical documentation under general supervision. The Scientist I applies foundational scientific knowledge to execute experiments, solve routine technical problems, and support cross-functional project teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Scientific field
• Hands-on laboratory experience (academic or industry)
• Understanding scientific methods, data analysis and root cause analysis
• Good computer skills in usage of MS Office Suite, Copilot and AI
• Good documentation, communication (e.g., written and verbal) and interpersonal relationship skills
• Good understanding and knowledge of principles, theories, and concepts relevant to a laboratory environment
• Good problem-solving, organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills
• Good understanding of processes and equipment used in assigned work
• Knowledge of and adherence to Edwards Environmental Health and Safety and Quality guidelines as they relate to medical device manufacturing
• Strict attention to detail
• Ability to interact professionally with all organizational levels
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast paced environment
• Flexibly shifts priorities to meet changing demands
• Must be able to work in a team environment, including immediate supervisor and other team members in the section or group; and may interact with vendors
• Adhere to all company rules and requirements (e.g., pandemic protocols, Environmental Health & Safety rules) and take adequate control measures in preventing injuries to themselves and others as well as to the protection of environment and prevention of pollution under their span of influence/control

Nice To Haves

• Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering, Materials Science or related field very strongly preferred
• Experience working in a medical device, pharmaceutical industry and/or lab environment
• Familiarity with FDA, ISO, and GDP
• Experience with polymers, coatings, and materials characterization techniques

Responsibilities

• Support a wide range of chemistry, materials, and coating activities such as testing, formulation, coating, and prototyping; may formulate and propose technical solutions.
• Build complex prototypes, sub-assemblies, and prepare feasibility test units, samples, and/or chemical solutions.
• Perform operational tests and identify failure modes on systems and equipment and propose technical solutions.
• Build prototypes for physician demonstration.
• Perform complex work using drawings, diagrams, written and verbal instructions, layouts or defined plans to perform testing, and trouble-shooting functions.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data; generate technical reports and summaries.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Support evaluation of new and existing materials, products, and processes.
• Perform routine and non-routine testing; troubleshoot basic technical issues.
• Contribute to process improvements and lab efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• Train, coach, and guide lower-level employees on new procedures, assess work techniques and provide feedback to engineers on procedures.
• Manage chemical waste by following EHS procedures.
• Maintain a clean work area.
• Order, log, store chemicals/equipment, and maintain chemical inventory.
• Complete requests from project teams and manager as needed.
• Be flexible to work on other tasks required by scientists, engineers, and leadership.
• Other incidental duties assigned by Leadership

Benefits

• competitive salaries
• performance-based incentives
• a wide variety of benefits programs to address the diverse individual needs of our employees and their families

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level