Research Chemist – Polymers, Foams & AI Innovation

Stepan Company; Northfield Township (IL); On-site; USD 86,000 - 133,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary Bonus

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

401K with Match

Profit Sharing

PTO

STD/LTD Disability Insurance

Health Savings Account

Adoption Assistance

Employee Recognition Program

EAP

Job summary

Stepan Company is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group in Northfield Township, IL, to drive strategic projects through collaboration, polymer synthesis, and formulation studies. The role includes developing business cases and coordinating with multiple functions to ensure project success.

Applicants should have strong polymer knowledge, analytical chemistry skills, and the ability to apply AI/ML tools in research workflows. Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Strong thermodynamic understanding applied to lab and plant processes.
• Experience integrating AI/ML into scientific workflows.
• Analytical capabilities for organic molecules: NMR, FTIR, GPC, TGA.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Organic and polymer synthesis and kinetic/process experiments.
• Polyurethane foam formulation and property testing.
• 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.
• Generate ideas to contribute to company growth.
• Collaborate across functions and communicate results to customers.

Skills

Thermodynamics applications

AI/ML in research workflows

Analytical chemistry NMR/FTIR/GPC/TGA

Communication & collaboration

Polymer science basics

Education

B.S. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Ph.D. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Stepan Company is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group in Northfield Township, IL, to drive strategic projects through collaboration, polymer synthesis, and formulation studies. The role includes developing business cases and coordinating with multiple functions to ensure project success.

Applicants should have strong polymer knowledge, analytical chemistry skills, and the ability to apply AI/ML tools in research workflows. Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits are offered.