Senior Polymer Scientist - Strategic Innovation and Growth

1d1 day ago

MonoSol

Chicago, US · Full-time · $83,767 – $140,860

About this role

We are hiring a Senior Polymer Scientist in the Strategic Innovation group (SIG). SIG builds the technology of the future through fundamental research, front-end innovation, and white-space exploration. The role demands a creative, independent, and adaptable researcher who learns new subjects quickly.

This position works closely with Marketing to build and validate new solutions for unmet needs in focus areas. It requires high energy, enthusiasm, entrepreneurial thinking, strong analytical capability, and skills like agile innovation methodology and continuous learning. The role balances ideation, project leadership, management, and lab work as an individual and team contributor.

The scientist will lead routine laboratory activities and develop new specialized techniques to meet project objectives. The position reports to the Head of Innovation, functions in the R&D platform team, and leads initiatives in the growth operating system. It offers high visibility, requiring communication across all organization levels, including the CEO.

This is an opportunity for an experienced scientist to lead projects for future innovations and company growth. It includes substantial on-the-job training in laboratory techniques, processing, lean innovation, and data analysis for polymer science problems. Self-motivated individuals can qualify for fast-track promotion along the R&D technical track with management responsibilities.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Material Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering
5-10 years of hands-on laboratory experience and knowledge of various polymer chemistries
Project leadership and management experience
Strong analytical capability
Ability to showcase agile innovation methodology, continuous learning, and curiosity-driven mindset
Competence in leading routine laboratory activities and developing new specialized techniques
Experience with mechanical and performance testing on polymer solutions
Proficiency in advanced data interpretation methods like Python scripts for materials evaluation

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and establish new technical solutions for unmet needs in focus areas utilizing Front-End innovation process
Create concept models and prototypes utilizing small tools and equipment (e.g., 3D printing)
Utilize common and advanced laboratory test equipment to perform hands-on mechanical and performance testing
Utilize advanced data interpretation methods (e.g., Python scripts) to evaluate new materials/processes
Independently generate testable hypotheses and experimental plans to achieve development project goals
Confer with team members on development projects, test results, and nonstandard tests
Effectively present results to growth teams and governing members to validate solutions
Leverage internal and external collaborators to develop novel technologies and new products

Benefits

Substantial on-the-job training in laboratory techniques, processing techniques, lean innovation methodologies, and data analysis
Eligibility for fast-track promotion along R&D technical track with management responsibilities
High degree of visibility and communication opportunities across organization levels including CEO
Flexible work style with up to 20% domestic and international travel