The Senior Chemist is responsible for advanced material development projects, formulation & families of compounds, maintaining material/product management systems, participating in new program development, and managing tasks of chemists while collaborating with technicians and supporting manufacturing technical staff globally.
Primary Responsibilities:
Advanced Material Development:
Capability to formulate, manage/oversee compound sample preparation, advanced lab techniques, and understand product quality standards and processes.
Manage validation of new materials and generate new/standardized validation methodology.
Lead less complex projects or be a team member on larger projects, independently carrying out project tasks.
Material/Product Management System:
Manage product information in appropriate systems for development, production, and legacy materials.
Develop best practices, standards, and specifications for materials.
Provide test data, reports, and comparisons to establish solutions for issues and guide standardization and adherence to rules and regulations.
New Program Development:
Work with program teams to provide technical support, assign standard materials, ensure proper material validation, and maintain budgets and timelines for new program development.
Team Management:
Review customer specifications to ensure materials meet performance requirements and assist teams in problem resolution.
Supervise or lead team members in projects related to research, innovation, and new materials.
Interface with specialized equipment and provide guidance on use and calibration.
Internal and External Relations:
Participate in and occasionally lead VAVE, lean, and continuous improvement activities.
Support and communicate with customers regarding material validation, testing, quality, and development.
Market Awareness:
Stay informed about current best practices and communicate updates to others.
Benchmark competitive materials and implement improvements as appropriate.
Review industry standards and publications to remain current with trends and developments.
Education and Qualifications:
Master's Degree in polymer science and engineering, chemistry, or chemical engineering; PhD preferred.
Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree plus at least 10 years of professional technical experience in the manufacturing industry.
Typically, 10+ years of experience.
Strong teamwork, multi-tasking, and communication skills.
Guideline and policy-oriented work to achieve objectives and meet deadlines.
Strong chemistry, mathematical skills, and mechanical aptitude.
Aptitude for solving complex problems with analytical skills.
Ability to understand advanced professional chemistry principles and practices.
Ability to work independently, with guidance in complex situations.
Full professional proficiency in English; other languages valued.
Proficient in database, product life cycle management systems, and project management tools.
Awareness of ISO/TS 16949 standards and advanced understanding of IP.