R&D Scientist - Coatings

R&D Scientist

We are seeking an innovative and hands-on R&D Scientist to join our team in Hickory, NC. This role focuses on developing and formulating new products, supporting both innovation and ongoing technical needs. The ideal candidate will collaborate across R&D, Operations, Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing to drive commercialization and provide technical leadership. The position is highly lab-focused (6070% hands-on lab work), with the remainder dedicated to reporting and data synthesis. The successful candidate will be creative, adaptable, and able to execute on new ideas in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and formulate adhesives, sealants, and coatings aligned with business priorities.
• Scale up R&D products into production and guide operations during trial runs.
• Collaborate with QC to establish test methods and ensure product quality.
• Manage project plans, timelines, and technical documentation; deliver presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Provide technical support to cross-functional teams and contribute to a collaborative, innovative team environment.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and support EHS and regulatory compliance.
• Engage with global divisions, customers, and suppliers for product development and technology exchanges.
• Travel up to 10% (domestic/international) may be required.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in developing and commercializing formulations, especially silicone-based materials.
• Proficiency with FT-IR, DSC, TGA, GC-MS, GPC, and physical property testing.
• Strong understanding of multiple chemistries and structureproperty relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, create and execute project plans, and synthesize data for reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively, break barriers, and introduce new concepts or product lines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with silicone-based materials (portfolio is silicone-focused).
• Experience in coatings is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with statistical design tools for experimental planning and analysis.
• Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a dynamic, customer-driven setting.
• Experience with patent or literature reviews and presenting technical content.
• Previous success in expanding product portfolios and introducing new technologies.
• MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Science required; PhD in a related field is a plus.
• 4+ years professional experience in adhesives, sealants, or coatings development, with proven success in product commercialization.

Work Environment

The role involves significant hands-on lab work, focusing on formulating and testing products to solve specific problems. Approximately 60-70% of the time is spent in the lab, with the remaining time dedicated to report writing and data synthesis. Flexible work is possible, with a potential shift to a 50-50 lab-reporting balance.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Hickory, North Carolina.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $85000.00 - $93000.00/yr. Insurance, 401k, PTO, holiday

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Hickory,NC.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Oct 18, 2025.