Kelly Science & Clinical has an immediate opening for a R&D Chemist to join our growing client near Waukegan, IL

Full-time

Direct Hire

Salary: $90,000-$100,000

Shift: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM (Flexible start time available)

Overview:

Are you a driven and innovative chemist with a passion for developing cutting-edge products and processes? We are looking for a Research and Development Chemist to join our dynamic team and contribute to the development of industry-leading sealants and adhesives. If you are ready to take on exciting technical challenges and work in a collaborative environment, this is the opportunity for you!

Key Responsibilities:

1. Safety and Compliance

• Ensure a safe working environment by adhering to all occupational health, safety, and environmental guidelines.
• Report any unsafe conditions and comply with proper chemical handling and waste management practices.
• Contribute to continuous improvements in our ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 integrated management systems.

2. Product Development

• Lead new product development from concept to full-scale production, focusing on synthetic, formulated, and custom products.
• Ensure products meet customer specifications and comply with environmental and health standards.
• Apply statistical and experimental design methods to optimize product performance and sustainability.

3. Process Development

• Collaborate with Research and Development Engineers to create efficient and cost-effective chemical processes that maximize yield and minimize waste.
• Ensure processes are scalable and safe for plant operations.

4. Analysis and Testing

• Perform qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses to determine molecular structure, assess product quality, and compare competitive products.
• Conduct physical property tests (e.g., tensile strength, particle size, surface tension) to assess material performance.
• Develop new or modified testing methodologies when existing ones fall short.

5. Documentation and Technical Support

• Conduct thorough technical literature reviews and patent research.
• Assist in the creation of commercial product formulas, procedures, and catalog documentation in compliance with ISO standards.
• Support the Sales team by addressing technical inquiries, solving customer issues, and educating on new products.
• Collaborate with the Marketing Department to develop technical data sheets, safety literature, and product overviews.
• Present technical reports at internal and external forums.

6. Customer Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with key customers, providing technical support and tailored solutions.
• Work closely with the Sales team to ensure customer needs are met with precision and innovation.
• Support product-specific training and presentations for clients and sales personnel.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant laboratory experience , preferably in product development within the sealant and adhesive (CASE) industry.

Technical Skills

• Strong foundation in chemical analysis, physical property testing, and process development.
• Proficiency in using statistical methods and experimental design techniques.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, email, and internet research tools. Ability to master other software programs as needed.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to interact with colleagues, customers, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze complex data, generate solutions, and present findings clearly and persuasively.
• Team-oriented with excellent problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset.

Additional Skills

• Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks and priorities.
• A passion for innovation and an eagerness to learn and grow in the field of product development.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Occasionally exposed to plant conditions and work near moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, and toxic chemicals.
• Moderate noise levels in the work environment.
• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 60 lbs.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary with opportunities for growth and development.
• A flexible work environment with a focus on work-life balance.
• Be part of a team that values innovation, teamwork, and quality.
• Contribute to exciting projects in the rapidly growing CASE industry.

If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity to apply your chemistry expertise in a forward-thinking company, apply today and become part of our team!