R&D Chemist II

Element Solutions Inc; Bridgeport, Northern (CT, KY); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company 3%

Paid parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions in Bridgeport, CT, seeks a Chemist or Chemical Engineer to lead electroplating chemistry development for semiconductor and advanced packaging. This hands-on role focuses on developing and optimizing electroplating chemistries and processes with close teamwork across R&D, applications, product management, and manufacturing.

The candidate will perform experimental research, apply electrochemical and materials-science principles, and design systematic

Qualifications

• B.S. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or closely related field; M.S. preferred.
• 3–5 years of electroplating, semiconductor wet processing, or related R&D experience preferred.
• Hands-on electroplating/electrodeposition or wet chemical processes experience preferred.
• Knowledge of electrochemistry and materials science desirable.
• Semiconductor/advanced packaging experience (TSV, RDL, damascene, hybrid bonding) a plus.
• DOE, statistics, data analytics, programming, automation, or AI-assisted tools a plus.
• Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Synthesis skills in plating organic polymer additives a plus; small hood-scale reactors experience.

Responsibilities

• Maintain safety standards and contribute to a strong laboratory safety culture.
• Conduct hands-on electroplating chemistry and process development, including formulation and analysis.
• Develop and optimize electroplating technologies for semiconductor and packaging applications.
• Apply electrochemistry and materials science to understand plating mechanisms and deposit properties.
• Design and execute DOE to optimize chemistry formulations and process conditions.
• Utilize statistics, data analytics, automation, and AI-assisted tools to accelerate experiments.
• Characterize materials with analytical techniques and collaborate with analytical teams.
• Document results, troubleshoot challenges, and communicate conclusions and recommendations.
• Collaborate with R&D, Applications, Engineering, Product Management, Manufacturing, and others to support development and scale-up.
• Maintain accurate lab records and documentation.

Skills

Electroplating

Electrochemistry

DOE

Data analytics

Automation

AI-assisted tools

Analytical techniques

Education

B.S. in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering/Materials Science (M.S. preferred)

Job description

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Division: Advanced Interconnect Solutions - Wafer Level Pack

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future!

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a business segment of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI), is renowned worldwide for its commitment to revolutionizing the electronics industry. With a legacy spanning over a century, we have continually set new benchmarks for excellence, reliability and sustainability in electronic materials.

• Wafer Level Packaging - Revolutionizing wafer fabrication processes for enhanced efficiency and performance
• Circuitry Solutions - Tailored solutions to meet the dynamic demands of modern circuitry
• Electronics Assembly Solutions - Innovating semiconductor, surface mount technology, and power electronics assembly for unparalleled reliability
• Advanced Materials and Joining - Engineering polymer and metal joining solutions for optimally performing circuits
• Film & Smart Surface Solutions - Transforming electronics with cutting-edge materials and technologies for enhanced functionality and reliability
• Micromax – Elevating electronics through high-performing, specialized inks and pastes

Across diverse sectors including automotive, consumer electronics, mobile devices, telecom, data storage, infrastructure, and AI, MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions has earned the trust of manufacturers worldwide. Our comprehensive range of high-quality solutions and technical services enables the entire electronics supply chain, empowering businesses to thrive in today\'s competitive landscape.

We embody the \'Elements of our Culture\'- our 5C\'s; Challenge, Commit, Collaborate, Choose, and Care. These core values are the foundation of our organization which our employees embrace in their interactions with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders, to drive financial performance and create a rewarding work environment.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a practical, creative, and highly motivated Chemist or Chemical Engineer to join our Research & Development team. This is a hands-on position focused on the development and optimization of electroplating chemistries, materials, and processes for semiconductor and advanced packaging applications.

The successful candidate will conduct experimental research, develop new chemistry and process concepts, and apply electrochemical, analytical, and data-driven approaches to solve technical challenges. The candidate will work closely with R&D scientists, application engineers, product management, and other cross-functional teams to support the development and commercialization of new products.

What will you be doing?

• Maintain the highest standards of safety and actively contribute to a strong laboratory safety culture.
• Conduct hands-on electroplating chemistry and process development, including formulation, plating experiments, sample preparation, characterization, and data analysis.
• Develop and optimize electroplating technologies for semiconductor and advanced packaging applications, including TSV, RDL, damascene, hybrid bonding, and other emerging applications.
• Apply fundamental electrochemistry and materials science to understand plating mechanisms, chemistry interactions, feature filling, deposit properties, and process performance.
• Design and execute systematic experiments and DOE to optimize chemistry formulations and process conditions.
• Utilize statistical analysis, data analytics, automation, and AI-assisted tools, where appropriate, to accelerate experimentation, data interpretation, and R&D productivity.
• Characterize materials using appropriate analytical and materials characterization techniques and collaborate with analytical teams for advanced characterization.
• Analyze and document experimental results, troubleshoot technical challenges, and communicate clear conclusions and recommendations.
• Collaborate with R&D, Applications, Engineering, Product Management, Manufacturing, and other functions to support product development, scale-up, and commercialization.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, procedures, formulations, data, and technical documentation.

Who are You?

• B.S. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field; M.S. preferred.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in electroplating, semiconductor wet processing, materials development, or related R&D is preferred.
• Hands-on experience with electroplating/electrodeposition or other wet chemical processes is preferred.
• Knowledge of fundamental electrochemistry and materials science is desirable.
• Semiconductor or advanced packaging experience, including TSV, RDL, damascene, hybrid bonding, or related technologies, is a plus.
• Experience with analytical/material characterization techniques is desirable.
• Experience with DOE, statistical analysis, data analytics, programming, automation, or AI-assisted scientific tools is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Synthesis skills in plating organic polymer additives is a plus. Experience with small hood-scale reactors and apparatus.

We understand that not all candidates may meet the requirements listed above. If you believe you have the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

We are Offering...

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future- You will be part of a highly collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement through cross-functional partnerships to achieve our mission. We do this through a strong and unified culture and transparent management which has empowered us to create high performing global teams that achieve superior solutions for our customers.

As part of the MAES Team, you will have ...

Opportunities for career growth, competitive compensation (competitive base salary and performance related bonus plan) and benefits packages (health, dental, and vision insurance, Wellness Program, PTO/Holidays, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match).

Innovated work environment where you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative team.

Perks and Incentives such as paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development.

The typical base salary range for this position is between $81,470.00 and $122,206.00

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category applicable under federal, state and local laws.

Nearest Major Market:

Bridgeport
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