Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced Technical Manager / Senior Chemist with a strong background in chemistry, composite materials, coatings, and product development. This role will lead research and development initiatives, manage technical projects, optimize formulations, support manufacturing operations, and provide technical expertise to customers and internal teams.
We are seeking an experienced Technical Manager / Senior Chemist with a strong background in chemistry, composite materials, coatings, and product development. This role will lead research and development initiatives, manage technical projects, optimize formulations, support manufacturing operations, and provide technical expertise to customers and internal teams.
The ideal candidate will have experience developing composite materials, coatings, and chemical formulations, along with strong leadership skills to guide laboratory activities, quality processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Development
- Lead research and development initiatives focused on creating new composite materials, coatings, and chemical formulations.
- Develop, optimize, and maintain existing product lines while ensuring product performance and regulatory compliance.
- Plan, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments to improve material properties and product performance.
- Manage R&D project pipelines, prioritize projects, and drive successful completion.
- Conduct material testing and analysis to provide data-driven recommendations for product improvements.
- Identify opportunities for innovation, process improvement, and new product development.
Technical & Product Support
- Provide technical support to customers, sales teams, and internal stakeholders.
- Troubleshoot product performance issues and provide technical solutions.
- Support product applications, testing, and evaluations to improve customer satisfaction.
- Develop technical documentation including technical data sheets, safety data sheets, labels, and product support materials.
- Provide technical guidance on product applications and value-added benefits.
Laboratory & Quality Management
- Manage laboratory operations, including testing procedures, quality control processes, and product evaluation.
- Establish and maintain quality systems to ensure consistent product performance.
- Support regulatory compliance initiatives, including environmental, safety, and quality requirements.
- Maintain accurate formulation records and manage formula updates through internal systems.
- Assist with quality documentation, audits, and regulatory submissions.
Manufacturing & Operations Support
- Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to ensure successful scale-up and production implementation.
- Support plant operations by providing technical expertise and resolving production-related challenges.
- Ensure developed products are practical, manufacturable, and meet quality standards.
- Work with cross-functional teams including production, sales, quality, and customer support.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Lead, mentor, and coach technical and laboratory team members.
- Provide guidance to staff to improve technical capabilities and operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with leadership teams to develop technical strategies and support business growth.
- Promote a culture of innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in formulation, chemistry, coatings, composites, or related industries.
- Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry and composite material development.
- Experience with paint formulations, coatings, epoxy systems, or similar chemical products.
- Proven experience leading research projects and developing new products.
- Ability to analyze technical data, prepare reports, and communicate findings effectively.
- Strong understanding of laboratory equipment, testing methods, and scientific processes.
- Experience managing or mentoring technical teams.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with solvent-borne coatings.
- Experience with styrenated coatings or similar coating technologies.
- Knowledge of composite material properties and applications.
- Experience supporting regulatory, quality, and manufacturing requirements.
Work Environment
This position requires working in both laboratory and production environments. The role may involve exposure to manufacturing conditions, including temperature variations, airborne particles, chemicals, and industrial equipment.
The employee should be comfortable working hands-on with laboratory processes, product testing, and technical problem-solving.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple technical projects.
- Strong analytical and root-cause problem-solving skills.
- Ability to meet deadlines and support business objectives.
- Occasional travel may be required.