Sr. Research & Development Scientist

Chase Corporation•Pittsburgh, PA

14h•Hybrid

About The Position

Chase Corporation is seeking a hands-on R&D Scientist to lead the development and commercialization of polyurethane-based foams, gels, and adhesive systems across our Electronic Coatings and Infrastructure segments. This is a formulation-to-commercialization role with clear ownership of product development programs—from concept through scale-up and launch. You will operate as a technical lead (IC) supported by technicians, working cross-functionally with commercial, operations, and quality teams to translate customer needs into scalable products.

Requirements

5–10 years of experience in polyurethane formulation and product development, with strong hands-on lab capability
Demonstrated experience taking products from development through commercialization and scale-up
Strong foundation in structure–property relationships, materials characterization, and failure analysis
Experience with analytical techniques (FTIR, GC/MS, thermal analysis, rheology, mechanical testing)
Proficiency with statistical tools and DoE (e.g., Minitab)
Experience working in stage-gate or structured NPD environments
Ability to operate cross-functionally and influence without authority
B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

Own development of polyurethane-based formulations (foams, gels, adhesives) from concept through commercialization
Translate customer and market requirements into differentiated product platforms
Lead formulation design, optimization, and validation using structured methodologies (DoE, statistical tools)
Partner with commercial teams and customers to support product adoption, trials, and technical positioning
Lead scale-up activities and provide hands-on troubleshooting across manufacturing sites
Ensure robust transfer from lab to production, including process parameters and quality controls
Support product lifecycle management, including continuous improvement and cost optimization
Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations using analytical techniques (FTIR, GC/MS, thermal, rheology, mechanical testing)
Develop structure-property-performance relationships to guide formulation strategy
Generate clear, data-driven recommendations to inform technical and business decisions
Interface with R&D, Operations, Quality, and Commercial teams globally
Track and communicate project progress, risks, and KPIs to leadership
Contribute to broader technology strategy and product roadmap development