R&D Scientist

Title: R&D- Scientist

Location: Minneapolis, MN, United States

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Coil Coatings Innovation Scientist contributes to the assessment, development, reformulation, quality, maintenance, and enhancement of products through planning, executing, and analysis of experiments with clear and accurate results. This includes adherence to sound performance, quality and economic goals/requirements. Advanced technologies will be utilized to develop differentiated products that exceed customer expectations. The individual is accountable for the solution of complex technical problems (product/process) using knowledge of raw materials, formulations, substrates, instruments, coatings application equipment and customer processes. This role is responsible for timely and accurate completion of multiple projects of moderate to high level complexity while also serving as a mentor to less experienced formulators. This position requires expert level knowledge and experience in related coatings technologies/markets.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Independently lead projects/groups without direct supervision from manager.
  Adherence to safety policies and laboratory procedures.
• Leadership of the assessment, development, reformulation, quality, maintenance, and enhancement of products through planning, executing and analysis of experiments with clear and accurate results.
• Demonstrate innovation and initiative in developing new project proposals and executing R&D programs of key strategic significance.
• Develop new products and methods, improve existing products, and anticipate/prevent/solve complex technical problems.
• Identify, recommend and lead strategic projects and assess technology solutions.
• Collaborate with materials science, analytical, and other division R&D teams to solve customer problems and overcome technology challenges in product development.
• Develop solutions for complex technical problems (product/process) and demonstrate expert knowledge in the use of raw materials, substrates, application equipment and instrumentation.
• Preserve technical knowledge by issuing periodic reports on development projects and reformulations. Substantiate formula changes with documentation.
• Interface with sales, marketing and manufacturing teams to deliver new product introductions efficiently and systematically to Sherwin-Williams customers.
• Develop new/innovative coating products that will allow Sherwin-Williams to provide differentiated solutions to our customers.
• Understand Coil Division customer market segments and coatings performance requirements.
• Provide mentoring to lower level technical professionals and may lead 1-3 direct reports.
• Lead multiple technically complex projects simultaneously.
• Understand the use of the Stage Gate Process in product development.
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment, including calibration with appropriate documentation.
  

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be legally authorized to work in the country for which you are applying for employment (without now or in the future needing sponsorship for employment work visa and/or permanent residence status).
• Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math field.
• 10 years of Coatings formulation experience
• Experience with solvent borne and/or radiation curable coatings formulation.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in taking product from lab development to manufacturing to customer line.
• Experience working across global labs.
• Experience working directly with customers.
• Proven mentoring skills.
• Familiarity with finishing equipment/processes of the coatings industry.
• Must be able, with or without reasonable accommodation, to determine the difference between colors so you can correctly tint paint to the colors desired by customers.

  PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Masters Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Coatings Technology or related field
  • Proven team building skills
  • Radiation curable coatings and/or coil coatings expertise
  • Experience directly leading others

    TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 20% Travel