Polymer Research Chemist – AI‑driven Synthesis & Foams

Stepan Oilfield Solutions; Winnetka (IL); On-site; USD 86,000 - 133,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary Bonus

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401K with Match

Profit Sharing

PTO

STD / LTD

HSA

Paid Parental Leave

Adoption Assistance

Reactions – Recognition Program

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

Stepan Company is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group to lead and support strategic projects. You will perform polymer synthesis, chemical analysis, and formulation studies for new products, while developing initial business cases to drive long-term initiatives.

Collaboration across functions enables project success and knowledge sharing. The role focuses on organic synthesis, polyurethane foam formulation, and scale-up for new polyol processes, with a strong emphasis on AI/ML

Qualifications

• Strong thermodynamic understanding applied to lab experiments and plant processes.
• Experience integrating AI/ML and predictive modeling into scientific workflows.
• Excellent organizational, writing and communication skills.
• Solid understanding of analytical capabilities for organic molecules (NMR/FTIR/GPC/TGA).
• Knowledge of structure–property relationships in polymers.

Responsibilities

• Organic and polymer synthesis, including kinetic and process experiments.
• Polyurethane foam formulation and physical property testing.
• Conduct analytical testing for polyol projects (NMR, FTIR, GPC etc.).
• Scale-up and process development for new polyol processes.
• Pilot-scale development of new polyurethane foams.
• Participate in safety/waste programs and adhere to policies.
• Conceive projects and ideas to contribute to company growth.
• Collaborate interdepartmentally on requests and technical projects.
• Communicate project results to internal and external customers.

Skills

Thermodynamics

AI/ML in research

Communication

NMR/FTIR/GPC/TGA

Structure-property relationships

Education

B.S. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (8+ years of industrial experience)

Ph.D. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (0–5 years industrial experience)

Tools

NMR

FTIR

GPC

TGA

Job description

Stepan Company is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group to lead and support strategic projects. You will perform polymer synthesis, chemical analysis, and formulation studies for new products, while developing initial business cases to drive long-term initiatives.

Collaboration across functions enables project success and knowledge sharing. The role focuses on organic synthesis, polyurethane foam formulation, and scale-up for new polyol processes, with a strong emphasis on AI/ML