Rubber Development Chemist

Fenner Precision Polymers; Gaffney (SC); On-site; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay with shift differentials and bonuses

Day-one Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

401(k) match immediately vested

100% Paid Parental Leave

Career Development in a Global Organization

Job summary

A global manufacturing provider in Gaffney is seeking a Development Chemist to join their R&D team. This role involves developing and optimizing rubber compounds for various applications while collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to enhance product performance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field, hands-on rubber compounding experience, and strong analytical skills. This position offers competitive pay and significant growth opportunities within the company.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in rubber compounding, elastomers, or polymer chemistry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop rubber compounds for new and existing products.
• Conduct laboratory testing, including physical, mechanical, and chemical analysis of rubber materials.
• Support scale-up, compounding, and manufacturing processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation of formulations, test results, and project progress.

Skills

Rubber compounding

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Testing techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Job description

Fenner Precision Polymer (Fenner PRP) is a global manufacturing provider of specialized and material‑driven solutions that help our customers succeed. We have over 1,000+ employees in US, UK, China and Italy.

Our Growth Ambition Articulated In 3Ps

People - Believing people are drivers of energy and progress, the organization is built on a human‑centered vision.

Profit - Committed to balancing growth, profitability, and responsibility, the organization pursues sustainable development across its businesses.

Planet - Aware of climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss, the organization works to reduce its environmental footprint.

Development Chemist

Competitive Rate

Who We Are…

At Fenner Precision Polymers, a Michelin Group company, we’re committed to delivering high‑performance solutions that power critical applications across industries. Our culture is built on safety, innovation, continuous improvement, and a shared dedication to excellence. We value teamwork, adaptability, and a positive work environment where every employee plays a vital role in our success.

What We Offer…

At Fenner, You’re More Than Just An Employee, You’re Part Of a Global Team That Values Your Voice, Supports Your Growth, And Celebrates Your Contributions. We Offer

• Competitive pay with shift differentials and bonuses
• Day‑one Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• 401(k) match immediately vested with the company
• 100% Paid Parental Leave
• Michelin Stock Purchase Program
• Michelin Tire Rebate Program
• Career Development in a Global Organization
• Personal Development and Career Progression
• A Culture Built on Trust, Respect, and Empowerment

What You’ll Be Doing…

We are seeking a Chemist with rubber experience to join our R&D team. In this role, you will develop, formulate, test, and optimize rubber compounds for a variety of applications. You will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to support product development, improve performance characteristics, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop rubber compounds for new and existing products.
• Conduct laboratory testing, including physical, mechanical, and chemical analysis of rubber materials.
• Support scale‑up, compounding, and manufacturing processes.
• Maintain accurate documentation of formulations, test results, and project progress.
• Troubleshoot material and processing issues in collaboration with production teams.
• Evaluate raw materials, additives, and reinforcing fillers to enhance compound performance.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, environmental, and safety standards.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to internal stakeholders.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related field.
• Hands‑on experience in rubber compounding, elastomers, or polymer chemistry.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with common testing techniques (e.g., tensile, rheology, hardness, aging).
• Ability to interpret data and make recommendations based on results.

Preferred

• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Experience with rubber injection molding, extrusion, or mixing processes.
• Familiarity with additive selection, fillers, curing systems, and performance optimization.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards.

Growth Opportunities…

This role offers a clear path for advancement. High‑performing individuals will have the opportunity to grow at Fenner Precision Polymers, taking on greater responsibility, strategic influence, and leadership within the R&D team.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?

Apply today and become part of a team that’s manufacturing more than products—we’re manufacturing a better future.