R&D Specialist III

Job Purpose

The R&D Specialist III owns execution of defined pieces of a project or Lab Work Request under the supervision of a project leader or manager. A R&D Specialist III takes a lead role in defining success criteria and goals for the project, in addition to delegating work to support staff as needed. This role is asked to independently troubleshoot complex coatings problems and create solutions. The incumbent understands formulation changes and anticipates their effects on manufacturing and quality at the end and coatings customers. 

Key Responsibilities

The R&D Specialist III supports the goals of the business as directed by a project lead or manager.  S/He performs or oversees the work on technical workstreams such as new product introduction, raw material changes, product testing, and root cause analysis. 

The R&D Specialist III performs each essential duty safely, satisfactorily, and in a timely manner. 

•    Manage the assigned LWR/projects, including 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
•    Summarise testing results and recommend next steps for formula changes or development
•    Consistently provide input on project progression and make 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
•    Assit in training new and incoming employees as needed
•    Travel as needed for product launches and/or customer support 

Level of autonomy

• Formulation testing and material updates
• Releasing holds allowing product manufacturing
• Changing manufacturing instructions/methods based on data
• Communicating results and interim conclusions to cross functional teams
• Communication with suppliers and vendors regarding material specifications

Job Requirements

Requirements:

•    4 year bachelor degree in a laboratory science, preferably chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering
•    3-6 years experience in a laboratory setting
•    Excellent background in chemistry/polymers
•    Excellent verbal and written communication 
•    Available to travel, as necessary

Skills and behaviors:

•    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

Rewards & Benefits

Salary range for this role is: $75,000 to $85,000 

This is the range that we in good faith anticipate relying on when setting wages for this position.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range.  This salary range may also be modified in the future.

• Benefits beginning Day 1
• 401K retirement savings with 6% company match
• Annual bonus 5% Short Term Incentive
• Medical insurance with HSA. Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits
• Generous vacation (3 weeks), personal (1 week) and holiday (11 days) pay 
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Career growth opportunities
• Active Diversity and Inclusion Networks
• Employee referral bonus

Competencies