Polymer Synthesis Chemist

DetraPel Inc.; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Company healthcare benefits

401(k) with company match

Performance compensation & stock options

Athletic country club membership

Quarterly team events

Job summary

A leading coatings provider based in Charlotte, NC, is seeking a Polymer Synthesis Chemist to design, synthesize, and scale bio-based polymers. The ideal candidate has over 7 years of experience and a Master's degree in a relevant field. Responsibilities include polymer design, data analysis, and the formulation process. The role offers a salary range of $125,000 - $140,000 and various employee benefits including unlimited PTO and healthcare. Joint collaboration with teams across R&D and Operations is essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of hands-on experience from synthesis through characterization.
• Fully versed in controlled, free radical, step growth, and core shell polymerizations.
• Able to interpret FTIR, GPC, DSC, and NMR data.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute polymerizations.
• Analyze characterization data and summarize findings.
• Work with chemists to convert polymers into formulations.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Data analysis (FTIR, GPC, DSC, NMR)

Project management

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Master’s degree in Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, or Materials Science

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

The Polymer Synthesis Chemist role is a full-time, in-person position focused on designing, synthesizing, and scaling bio-based and non-bio-based polymers that meet target barrier and durability requirements. You will own polymer platform development, design and execute lab-scale polymerizations, design and execute characterization and testing, translate results into application-ready formulations, and lead cross-functional work with Applications, Formulation, Operations, and Manufacturing to move programs from lab to pilot to production. You will mentor junior team members and drive continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

Polymer Design and Synthesis (40%)

• Design and execute polymerizations, including controlled, free radical, step growth, and core-shell approaches.
• Select monomers, crosslinkers, surfactants, catalysts, and additives to meet cost, safety, and performance targets.
• Own reaction planning, setup, feeds, in-process monitoring, and post-processing
• Maintain detailed batch records and author clear SOPs.

Characterization and Data Analysis (20%)

• Analyze reports of FTIR, GPC, DSC, and NMR as available. Summarize data in concise reports and presentations.
• Execute and document TGA, rheology, particle size, and solids testing as applicable
• Link structure and process variables to key properties such as barrier performance, film formation, adhesion, and flexibility.

Formulation and Application Transfer (25%)

• Work with Applications and Formulation Chemists to convert neat polymers into final formulations for textiles, paper, and packaging.
• Define critical parameters such as solids, viscosity, and cure profile to hit end-use specs.

Process Optimization and Scale Up (10%)

• Develop process optimizations and scale-up procedures for pilot and production.
• Run pilot batches with Operations and Manufacturing, define process windows, and author tech transfer documents and control plans.

Safety, Quality, and Lab Operations (5%)

• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and good documentation practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment.
• Calibrate and care for lab equipment and manage basic lab inventory.

Compensation: $125,000 - $140,000 yearly

You'll Fit Right In If:

• Education: Master’s degree in Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, or Materials Science preferred. Bachelor’s degree considered with a strong record of achievement.
• Experience: 7+ years of demonstrated hands-on ownership from synthesis through characterization, formulation transfer, pilot execution, and tech transfer.
• Understanding of bio-based and non-bio-based polymer synthesis.
• Fully versed in controlled, free radical, step growth, and core shell polymerizations.
• Able to interpret FTIR, GPC, DSC, and NMR data.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word with strong data organization and reporting skills.
• Plus factors include familiarity with coatings testing, such as viscosity, solids, contact angle, COBB, or KIT, where applicable.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and safety-minded; capable of following and writing SOPs.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and communicate well across R&D, Operations, and Manufacturing.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Adaptable and proactive. Ready to pivot and handle ad-hoc needs

AboutDetraPel:

• Unlimited PTO
• Company healthcare benefits + vision + dental
• 401(k) with company match
• Performance compensation & stock options
• Company-sponsored athletic country club membership
• A fun and rewarding place to work with a collaborative team environment
• Quarterly team events

DetraPel is the leading provider of performance coatings for various industrial and consumer verticals. We specialize in developing plastic-free, PFAS-free (100% fluorine-free) coatings that provide superior performance without sacrificing sustainability. DetraPel's brands create products for diverse markets, including paper, food packaging, textiles, and healthcare. Our technologies enhance the durability, resistance, and performance of various substrates while still maintaining recyclability, composability, and reliability.