RESEARCH CHEMIST

Design-Build Solutions, Inc; United States; On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Design-Build Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Research Chemist to develop innovative asphalt binders, emulsions, and polymer-modified systems.

You will perform tests, evaluate data, and guide projects from concept to market readiness in a collaborative lab setting. The role requires a BS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, 3+ years in industrial coatings or an MS with 2+ years, and strong knowledge of asphalt materials, polymers, and ASTM procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering required.
• 3 years industrial coatings experience or MS with 2 years preferred.
• Knowledge in building products/construction materials chemistry.
• Experience in the asphalt industry required.
• Experience with polymer chemistry a plus.
• Manufacturing or formulation experience in coatings, paints, resins preferred.
• Knowledge of sealants, adhesives, and coatings testing/formulating preferred.
• Must have safety-focused laboratory skills and equipment experience.
• Strong problem-solving ability with good communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Lead new product initiatives from development to market readiness.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Product Management to scale to production.
• Prepare project documentation and technical/lab reports.
• Assist lab management with essential testing and ensure compliance.
• Review ASTM procedures and interpret industry data for management.
• Communicate results through reports and briefings.

Skills

Coatings chemistry

Polymer chemistry

ASTM standards

Laboratory testing

Technical writing

Project management

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

MS in a relevant field (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

General Summary Of PositionThe Research Chemist will perform a broad range of chemical tests and procedures in the laboratory using professional judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of professional methods and techniques. This role requires the formulation, testing, and optimization of innovative asphalt binders, asphalt emulsions, and polymer-modified systems.

Core & Essential Tasks

NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

• Lead new product initiatives, identifying market opportunities and executing innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Product Management to transition new products from development to full-scale production and market readiness.
• Handle all necessary project documentation, ensuring all company-required forms are completed accurately and on time.
• Write technical and laboratory reporting for projects.

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS & COMPLIANCE

• Assist laboratory management to conduct essential testing and services, applying your chemical expertise to ensure all work meets industry best practices and company guidelines.
• Evaluate analytical findings and reports to determine compliance with company and industry standards.
• Report all results to management through written reports and verbal briefings, highlighting any non-compliance issues.

INDUSTRY EXPERTISE & STRATEGY

• Review American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) procedures and perform follow-up testing pursuant to ASTM protocols
• Interpret technical industry data and present actionable insights to management, advising on the best course of action.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering is required. At least 3 years of industrial coatings experience or Master of Science with at least 2 years of relevant industry experience is preferred. Must have knowledge in the building product and/or construction materials chemistry industry. Chemistry experience in the asphalt industry is required. Experience with polymer chemistry is a plus. Manufacturing or formulation of coatings, paints, resins, or other relevant science disciplines is preferred. Knowledge of sealants, adhesives, and coatings testing and formulating is preferred. Must have experience with laboratory equipment use and procedures with respect for safety. Demonstrated aptitude for problem-solving; ability to determine solutions for customers. Excellent communication and organizational skills. The ability to learn new concepts/procedures quickly. Must be results-orientated and able to work both independently and within a team environment. Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite applications. Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g. use of protective gear).

Physical Requirements

Ability to communicate orally in a clear, concise and effective manner with the customers, account representatives, company representatives, management, staff, and the public in face-to-face, one-on-one and group settings. Ability to use a telephone for communication. Ability to maintain regular, predictable, and punctual attendance. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Use office equipment such as a personal computer, copier and facsimile machines. Ability to communicate in writing in a clear, concise and effective manner. Sit, stand, and/or walk for extended time periods. Hearing and vision required to be within normal ranges. Ability to accurately distinguish color variation. Read at, above, and below shoulder height. Occasionally stoop, kneel or crouch. Sufficient manual dexterity required to operate equipment. Tolerate inclimate weather, including heat and cold. Normal range of tolerance to household and other types of typical industrial/construction chemicals and solvents.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, protected veteran status, marital status, gender identity or expression, transgender status, citizenship, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic under applicable law. The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to, among others, individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans.