The Research Chemist is responsible for research activities on new and existing products as well as identifying and implementing new technologies within the thermoplastics business group. Additionally, the responsibility for product performance requirements, predictive testing, product formulations, and will be the R&D link to plant processing associated with manufacturing, assembly, design, and performance.
Responsible for new and existing product development and innovation within the thermoplastics business group.
Establishing thermoplastic products' formulation, process design and performance requirements.
Products include flexible PVC and TPO for roofing.
Research activities on thermoplastics formulation and processing for new product and technology development.
Provides service and testing assistance to laboratory department management, utilizing professional chemical background and accepted industry procedures and techniques in line with company policy requirements.
Responsible for raw material specifications, formulations, technical specifications, processing specifications and performance requirements.
Interphase with Manufacturing and Product Management on scale up and product introduction
Presents completed reports verbally, if requested, to department director
Reviews technical chemical material from industry technical association and recommends course of action on each item to director.
Works with marketing, manufacturing, purchasing, and warranty departments on defined project priorities, project scope and future development directions.
Other duties as assigned
Bachelor of Science degree in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related technical discipline with at least 5 years of relevant industry experience or Master of Science with at least 3 years of relevant industry experience is preferred. Theoretical and practical knowledge of the physical, chemical, and mechanical behavior of thermoplastic polymers. Knowledge to analyze data, understand structure property relationships of polymers and conduct relative testing and evaluations. Project management skills in a cross functional environment. Experience with laboratory equipment use and procedures with a respect for safety. Working knowledge of thermoplastic compounds, testing, processing and development. Prior experience with bitumen-based technology is highly desired. Experience with FTIR, DSC, TGA, and rheology analysis of polymers. Demonstrated aptitude for problem-solving; ability to determine solutions for customers. Excellent communication and organizational skills. The ability to learn new concepts/procedures quickly.
Must be results-orientated and able to work both independently and within a team environment. Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite applications.
Ability to communicate orally in a clear, concise and effective manner with the customers, account representatives, company representatives, management, staff, and the public in face-to-face, one-on-one and group settings. Ability to use a telephone for communication. Ability to maintain regular, predictable, and punctual attendance at the facility. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Use office equipment such as a personal computer, copier and facsimile machines. Ability to communicate in writing in a clear, concise and effective manner. Sit or stand for extended time periods. Hearing and vision required to be within normal ranges. Read at, above, and below shoulder height. Occasionally stoop, kneel or crouch. Sufficient manual dexterity required to operate equipment. Tolerate inclimate weather, including heat and cold. Normal range of tolerance to household and other types of typical industrial/ construction chemicals and solvents.
The Garland Company, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, veteran status, marital status, gender identity or expression, transgender status, citizenship, sexual orientation, age (40 and older), disability (except where the disability prevents the individual from being able to perform the essential functions of the job and cannot be reasonably accommodated) or any other legally protected characteristic under federal, state or local law.
If you have trouble or need assistance in completing the information, please call Jay Hebert at 800-321-9336 ext. 3614.
Approximate completion time of application is 1 hour.