Senior Polymer & Formulation Scientist

2670 DDP Specialty Elect Mat US LLC; Midland (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

DuPont Shelter Solutions is seeking a Senior Polymer & Formulation Scientist to lead design, synthesis, formulation, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems in Midland, Michigan. You will apply deep polymer chemistry expertise to develop innovative materials addressing customer and market needs.

The role combines strategic project leadership with hands-on lab work, within a collaborative team of scientists and engineers, supported by technicians and technologists.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic or Polymer Chemistry.
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry, including mechanisms.
• Experience with condensation polymerizations, preferably polyurethanes.
• Familiarity with polymer and small-molecule characterization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, formulate, process, and characterize advanced polymer systems in bench-scale studies.
• Lead experiments and interpret results; communicate progress to teams and leadership.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive R&D programs in shelter solutions.

Skills

Organic chemistry

Polymer chemistry

Polymer characterization

Polymer modification

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Organic/Polymer Chemistry

Tools

LIMS

Job description

At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it’s providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world. Discover the many reasons the world’s most talented people are choosing to work at DuPont. Why Join Us | DuPont Careers DuPont Shelter Solutions is a global leader in building and construction technologies, delivering trusted solutions that improve weatherization, energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and fire protection. Our portfolio includes industry-leading brands such as Tyvek®, Great Stuff™, and Styrofoam™, helping customers build stronger, safer, and more sustainable structures. We are seeking a Senior Polymer & Formulation Scientist to join our Shelter Solutions R&D team in Midland, Michigan. In this role, you will lead the design, synthesis, formulation, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems, applying deep expertise in polymer and organic chemistry to develop innovative materials and solve complex technical challenges. Working within a collaborative team of scientists and engineers, you will help drive the next generation of products that meet evolving customer and market needs. This position offers a balance of strategic project leadership and hands‑on laboratory work, supported by experienced technicians and technologists.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain deep technical knowledge of relevant scientific literature, patents, and industry trends
• Apply strong experimental design and innovative problem‑solving skills to address R&D challenges
• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret bench‑scale polymer syntheses, formulations, and characterization experiments using standard laboratory equipment
• Work effectively both independently and as part of cross‑functional project teams
• Document experimental work and results in a timely manner using LIMS, internal technical reports, patent disclosures, and external publications as appropriate
• Communicate results, insights, and project progress through clear oral and written presentations to technical teams, management, and business leadership
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of the organization
• Show initiative, adaptability, and a desire to embrace new opportunities and drive successful outcomes

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry, including physical, mechanistic, and synthetic principles
• Broad understanding of condensation polymerization systems, including reaction mechanisms and kinetics
• Experience with condensation polymerizations, preferable with polyurethanes
• Familiarity with characterization techniques for polymers and small molecules
• Basic understanding of structure–property relationships and polymer physics
• Ability to identify and pursue suitable approaches to polymer modification as needed
• Proven ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary team environments, including leading portions of technical programs to meet team objectives
• Knowledge of fire science and experience with fire testing methods is highly preferred

DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package.

DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class.

DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class.