Position: Coatings R&D Scientist

Location: South Plainfield, NJ (Onsite at the R&D Center)

A fast growing PE-backed company in the Advanced Materials manufacturing space is looking for a Coatings R&D Scientist to develop innovative coatings, dispersions, and chemical formulations for diverse applications, including industrial lubricants, high-temperature release, conductive, and corrosion-resistant coatings. This is a hands-on, fast-paced role where you’ll lead research initiatives, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to groundbreaking product development efforts at a state-of-the-art R&D facility.

Responsibilities Include:

• Designing and formulating novel coatings and dispersions tailored for various industrial applications.
• Conducting experiments, analyzing data, and providing clear insights and next steps.
• Leading a safe, clean, and well-organized laboratory environment.
• Guiding and supervising junior chemists in performing experiments and presenting results.
• Developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
• Researching and testing new raw materials to enhance existing products or create new ones.
• Identifying and evaluating advanced laboratory instrumentation to expand R&D capabilities.
• Presenting data and findings to internal stakeholders and collaborating with marketing and new business development teams to align research with market opportunities.
• Supporting production scale-up at manufacturing plants and ensuring a seamless transition from R&D to commercialization.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Education: Ph.D., MS, or BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related fields.
• Experience: 3–5+ years in industrial chemical-based manufacturing, preferably with coatings, sealants, adhesives, or dispersions.
• Expertise in rheology, coating application techniques, adhesion principles, and DOE (Design of Experiments).
• Strong data analysis and presentation skills, with proficiency in statistical tools like Excel and DOE software.
• Effective communication skills to interface with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, including C-suite executives.
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills to thrive in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

What the role Offers:

• A chance to work in a newly built, state-of-the-art R&D facility equipped with cutting-edge technology.
• A culture focused on innovation, collaboration, and transparency, supported by a growing, forward-thinking organization.
• Opportunities to engage in exciting market development efforts, particularly in high-temperature coatings, aluminum applications, and conductive coatings for thermal and electrical use.

Physical Requirements: This onsite position requires the ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

Salary and Benefits: The salary range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to skill set; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. It is not common for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the base range is $100,000.00 to $ 125,000.00 per year + 15% company performance bonus and benefits.