Principal Chemist

Ecolab; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an established industry player as a Principal Chemist, where you'll drive innovation in chemistry and develop groundbreaking products. In this dynamic role, you'll lead research projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and optimize molecular structures to meet strategic business needs. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact in water treatment solutions while fostering your growth in a diverse and inclusive environment. If you're passionate about chemistry and eager to contribute to meaningful advancements, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Mentorship opportunities

Qualifications

• 0 to 2 years of relevant R&D experience.
• Understanding of physical/chemical properties.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development for new product development.
• Design and execute experiments, communicate results.
• Mentor junior scientists and provide consultation.

Skills

Synthesis

Formulation

Characterization

Structure-Activity Relationships

Research and Development

Education

Degree in Polymer / Material Chemistry

Job description

Job Title: Principal Chemist

Ecolab is seeking a Principal Chemist to develop and advance differentiated innovations in chemistry and associated processes through synthesis, structure-activity correlations, product optimization, production support, and chemical application insights, satisfying both business and customer needs.

Responsibilities include:

1. Performing and leading research, development, and problem-solving projects for new product and platform development across Nalco Water businesses.
2. Collaborating with core and application research teams to design, execute, and communicate results.
3. Designing molecular structures (both polymer and small molecules), synthesis, and characterization.
4. Developing laboratory synthetic routes, formulation, and characterization methods for water-soluble polymers.
5. Evaluating performance of developed chemistries and technologies.
6. Optimizing structure-activity relationships through collaboration with subject matter experts.
7. Assessing scale-up feasibility from bench to pilot plant.
8. Supporting field validation and ongoing optimization of current products.
9. Engaging in new platform development aligned with strategic business needs.
10. Interpreting experimental data and communicating results effectively.
11. Mentoring junior scientists and providing experimental design consultation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Degree in Polymer / Material Chemistry or related Chemistry discipline.
• 0 to 2 years of relevant R&D experience.
• Understanding of physical/chemical properties and structure-activity relationships.
• Synthesis, formulation, and characterization experience.
• Sponsorship not available.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Applied chemistry experience.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

We offer comprehensive benefits and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Applicants must be fully vaccinated for certain roles, subject to accommodations. Ecolab is an Equal Opportunity Employer, fostering a workplace of growth, fairness, and respect for all individuals regardless of background.