Senior Product Development Chemist

1d1 day ago

CCL Industries

Clinton, US · Full-time · $110,000 – $150,000

About this role

We are seeking a seasoned Product Development Chemist with expertise in polymer chemistry, particularly in designing advanced coatings systems for challenging substrates such as metals and low surface energy surfaces. In this senior-level role, you will lead the development and optimization of high-performance formulations for industrial, consumer, and specialty applications. This position demands creative formulation skills and in-depth understanding of polymer science, adhesion mechanisms, and surface chemistry.

You will lead the design, formulation, and evaluation of coatings, adhesives, and specialty films using polymers such as PU, PET, VAc, Acrylic, PVF, and PVDF. Develop and optimize adhesion systems for hard-to-bond substrates including polyethylene, polypropylene, and metallic surfaces. Direct technical experiments, trials, and performance testing to validate new materials and processes.

Collaborate cross-functionally with quality, production, and commercial teams to ensure successful product launches. Conduct root cause analysis using structured problem-solving methodologies like FMEA, DMAIC, and control plans. Apply advanced Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize formulations and manage scale-up from bench to full production.

Serve as a technical liaison with customers and partners, providing formulation expertise and troubleshooting support. Lead multiple concurrent development projects while mentoring junior staff. Drive innovation and guide products from concept to commercialization in a dynamic team environment.

Requirements

B.S. or M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
8+ years of experience in product development with strong focus on formulation and adhesion science
Proven expertise in working with various resin systems and relevant additives
Familiarity with coating and adhesive test methods and surface characterization techniques
Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to convey complex technical results
Willingness to travel up to 25%; travel varies based on project cycles
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
Demonstrated success in formulating and compounding functional coatings and adhesives

Responsibilities

Lead the design, formulation, and evaluation of coatings, adhesives, and specialty films using polymers such as PU, PET, VAc, Acrylic, PVF, and PVDF
Develop and optimize adhesion systems for hard-to-bond substrates including polyethylene, polypropylene, and metallic surfaces
Direct technical experiments, trials, and performance testing to validate new materials and processes
Collaborate cross-functionally with quality, production, and commercial teams to ensure successful product launches
Conduct root cause analysis and apply structured problem-solving methodologies (FMEA, DMAIC, control plans)
Apply advanced Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize formulations and scale-up processes
Manage scale-up activities from bench to pilot and full production, including documentation and training
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (REACH, RoHS, FDA) and maintain comprehensive technical documentation