Staff Chemist - Epoxy Focus

Illinois Tool Works; Danvers (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Tool Works is looking for a Staff Chemist based in Danvers, Massachusetts, to develop and commercialize epoxy-based adhesive and coating technologies. The role involves leading formulation and driving projects from concept to commercialization, working in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal candidates will have a PhD in Polymer or Organic Chemistry and over 5 years of industrial R&D experience. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills are essential, along with experience in epoxy-based development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of industrial R&D experience.
• Proven experience in epoxy‑based adhesives and coatings development.
• Strong understanding of structure–property relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development of new adhesive and coating products.
• Design experiments, interpret results and deliver technical reports.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (manufacturing, marketing, sales).

Skills

Product commercialization

Analytical and testing techniques

Problem-solving skills

Collaboration skills

Hands-on formulation expertise

Education

PhD or advanced degree in Polymer or Organic Chemistry

Tools

DSC

DMA

FTIR

GC-MS

Job description

Job Description

ITW Performance Polymers is a Division within ITW’s Polymers & Fluids segment headquartered in Massachusetts with operations in Pennsylvania, Florida and Shannon, Ireland. The company is a global leader in the research, development and manufacturing of structural and semi‑structural adhesives, grouting and chocking compounds, sprayable syntactic materials, wear‑resistant coatings and repair compounds for a diverse range of industrial markets.

Summary: The Research & Development team is key to driving innovation and business growth. As a Staff Chemist, you’ll develop and commercialize epoxy‑based adhesive and coating technologies in a fast‑paced environment, combining hands‑on lab work, project leadership and cross‑functional collaboration to deliver high‑impact, customer‑focused solutions for a Fortune 200 industry leader.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development of new adhesive and coating products.
• Drive projects through stage‑gate innovation process from concept to commercialization.
• Design experiments, interpret results and deliver technical reports.
• Scale formulations from lab to production and support manufacturing transfer.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (manufacturing, marketing, sales).
• Conduct patent searches and contribute to intellectual property development.
• Support existing products through raw material qualification and performance validation.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
• Promote, support and adhere to all safety, environmental and quality policies and procedures.

Qualifications, Skills & Competencies

• PhD or advanced degree in Polymer or Organic Chemistry (preferred).
• Minimum 5+ years of industrial R&D experience.
• Proven experience in epoxy‑based adhesives and coatings development.
• Track record of successful product commercialization.
• Experience with analytical and testing techniques (DSC, DMA, FTIR, rheology, GC‑MS).
• Strong understanding of structure–property relationships.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Hands‑on formulation expertise.
• Ability to manage multiple projects independently.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a results‑driven approach.
• Travel: Approximately 10–15% for customer and technical support.

Compensation Information

The salary for this role is $120,000 - $130,000.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.