Microscopist

Eastman; Kingsport (TN); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays and PTO

Mentorship & development programs

Job summary

Eastman is seeking a Ph.D. Analytical Scientist focused on Microscopy for the Microbiology and Materials Analysis Laboratory at our Kingsport, TN headquarters. The role emphasizes advanced microscopy techniques and collaboration with project teams to deliver results.

You will perform sample preparation, data collection, analysis, and reporting, contribute to new test methods, and act as a safety leader within the team. Onsite position with growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or other related science.
• AFM experience strongly preferred.
• Nano-indentation and optical profilometry experience strongly preferred.
• Understanding of materials science preferred.
• Ability to organize, coordinate, and prioritize lab work including detailed timelines is a must.
• Clear and effective written and oral communication is required.

Responsibilities

• Materials testing and preparation including optical, phase-contrast, fluorescence, AFM/electron microscopy and related techniques.
• Identify and evaluate new capabilities for growth and reliability.
• Maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of analytical equipment.
• Accountable for sample turnaround time.
• Collaborate with scientists and project teams to provide timely answers.
• Create new test methods to meet customer needs.
• In-lab duties including sample prep, testing, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Document major learnings in technical/invention reports.
• Act as safety leader within the team.

Skills

Clear and effective written and oral"

Organize, coordinate, and prioritize-l

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or related science

Tools

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

Nano-indentation

Optical profilometry

Job description

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com .

Responsibilities

The Corporate Analytical Division is seeking a full-time Ph.D. Analytical Scientist focusing on Microscopy in the Microbiology and Materials Analysis Laboratory.

This position is located onsite at our headquarters in Kingsport, TN.

Responsibilities include:

• Materials Testing and preparation such as optical, phase contrast, fluorescence, atomic-force, and electron microscopy as well as nano-indentation and optical profilometry
• Identification and evaluation of new capabilities necessary for growth and reliability
• Maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of analytical equipment
• Accountable for sample turnaround time
• Collaboration with scientists and project teams to provide the right answer to the right person at the right time
• Creation of new test methods to meet customer needs
• In-lab position performing sample preparation, testing, data collection, data analysis, and report generation
• Timely documentation of major learnings in technical and invention reports
• Safety leader within the team

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or other related science
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) experience is strongly preferred
• Nano-indentation and optical profilometry experience is strongly preferred
• Understanding of materials science is preferred
• Ability to organize, coordinate, and prioritize lab work including detailed timelines is a must
• Clear and effective written and oral communication is required

Benefits

Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.

Compensation & Incentives

• Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.

Health & Wellness

• Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage—paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax‑free dollars for care today or in the future.
• A robust menu of voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical‑illness protection, and more—so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
• Holistic wellness support: financial‑planning tools, family‑building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.

Retirement & Financial Strategies

• 401(k) with a company match—plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long‑term savings.

Time Away

• Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life’s moments.

Growth & Development

• Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.

At Eastman, we invest in the whole you—so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you’re proud of.

Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.

Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.