Development Specialist

Trinseo LLC; Terneuzen; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Trinseo LLC in Terneuzen, Netherlands, is seeking a Development Specialist to bridge technology and innovation within the plastics sector. This role focuses on sustainable product development and technical service, emphasizing collaboration with R&D and commercial teams.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD or MSc in relevant fields, extensive experience in polymer processing, and strong communication skills in English and Dutch. Responsibilities include leading development projects and providing technical support to customers across Europe.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in a relevant field with plastics experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in the chemical industry, preferably plastics.
• Expertise in polymer processing, including injection molding and compounding.

Responsibilities

• Develop and commercialize sustainable products and technologies.
• Lead projects that resolve quality challenges.
• Provide technical support to distribution partners.

Skills

Polymer processing technologies

Technical communication

Sustainable product development

Statistical analysis

Education

PhD in Chemistry or MSc in Chemical Engineering

MSc in Mechanical Engineering with plastics experience

Job description

Overview

The Development Specialist serves as a key link between customers and Trinseo Plastics Solutions, acting as a bridge for technology and innovation across Trinseo’s SAN, ABS, PC/ABS, and PC Compounds portfolio. A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability and the application of safe chemistry principles.

This role combines two core components: Technical Service (TS), focused on building strong customer relationships, and Development (D), aimed at designing, advancing, and qualifying new or existing materials in innovative applications. The primary focus of this position is product and application development within the industrial market segment, with particular emphasis on ignition-resistant applications in sectors such as electrical & electronics, consumer goods, building & construction, and transportation.

The position requires applying expertise in polymer science and processing technologies, with emphasis on injection molding and compounding. As part of the Trinseo Plastics Solutions TS&D organization, the Development Specialist will lead development projects and collaborate closely with R&D Centers of Excellence, commercial teams, manufacturing, supply chain, and other internal functions. The role also holds direct technical responsibility for a defined distribution channel and customer portfolio.

In addition, the position includes serving as Technology & Innovation (T&I) representative for the Compounds & Blends business management team, as well as acting as asset focal point for the SAN plant.

Responsibilities

• Develop and commercialize sustainable products, applications, and processing technologies
• Lead development projects aimed at resolving critical quality challenges
• Drive business growth by supporting distribution channels, developing new direct accounts, and expanding application opportunities
• Provide timely, high-quality technical support to distribution partners and key customers across Europe
• Identify and evaluate new growth opportunities aligned with Trinseo Plastics business strategy
• Ensure effective communication of new product and application developments to relevant stakeholders and customersPrepare high-quality technical documentation, including scientific reports

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Materials Science; alternatively, MSc in Mechanical Engineering with substantial plastics experience
• Minimum of 3 years (preferably 5 years) of experience in the chemical industry, ideally within the plastics sector
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer processing technologies, particularly injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, and compounding
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis is considered an advantage
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Dutch, along with excellent presentation and organizational capabilities
• Additional language skills (German and/or French) are an asset
• Willingness and ability to travel across Europe (up to 30%)