Development Chemist

7w1 month ago

Trelleborg

Mason City, US · Full-time · $78,000 – $105,000

About this role

The Development Chemist serves as the subject-matter expert on rubber materials, formulations, and processing interactions. Analyze how raw materials, mixing parameters, and downstream processes affect compound performance. Evaluate consequences of formulation or process changes and provide clear guidance to stakeholders.

Lead the full lifecycle of compound development from initial concept and formulation through pilot trials and full-scale production. Maintain accountability for performance, manufacturability, cost, and customer satisfaction at every stage. Document development work, testing results, and decision rationales for traceability.

Partner closely with the mixing facility to align capabilities, processes, and development needs. Ensure smooth scale-up from lab to production by coordinating trials and validating performance. Provide technical training and support to mixing personnel as required.

Build and operate an R&D mixing laboratory to accelerate innovation, testing, and rapid prototyping. Establish lab procedures, safety protocols, and testing workflows aligned with production requirements. Champion continuous improvement across formulation, mixing, and production processes.

Requirements

Expertise in rubber materials, formulations, and processing interactions.
Experience leading compound development from concept through full-scale production.
Proven ability to establish and operate an R&D mixing laboratory.
Strong knowledge of scale-up processes between lab and production mixing facilities.
Skill in evaluating effects of raw material and process changes on compound performance.
Experience documenting development work and testing results for traceability.
Ability to lead technical discussions and cross-functional project reviews.

Responsibilities

Act as the subject-matter expert on rubber materials, formulations, and processing interactions.
Lead the full lifecycle of compound development from initial concept through pilot trials and full-scale production.
Establish, equip, and operate an R&D mixing laboratory to support innovation and rapid prototyping.
Partner with the mixing facility to align capabilities and ensure smooth scale-up from lab to production.
Develop new rubber formulations and compound recipes tailored to performance, processing, and cost requirements.
Identify and execute material-based cost-reduction opportunities through VAVE initiatives.
Drive technical and cross-functional projects from concept through implementation while meeting timelines.
Champion continuous improvement using data, testing results, and root-cause analysis.