R&D Chemist
ALTA Performance Materials is the global leader in a broad range of general-purpose and high-performance grades of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gelcoats and low-profile additives for the plastics industry. ALTA Performance Materials are used in several global markets: including building materials; corrosion-resistant fiber reinforced plastic; recreation; transportation; and wind energy. The business has operations in multiple locations in the US, Europe, Brazil, India and China.
For decades, we've set the standard for excellence and reliability, elevating the performance in composites. Today, we're writing the next chapter—an independent, future-focused company driven by innovation and a passion for pushing boundaries. Our strength lies in our people: experts and innovators who bring energy and purpose to everything we do. With a portfolio of premium brands and a culture built on trust, proactivity and partnership, we’re shaping the future of composites materials. Join us and help define what’s next.
Position Summary:
We are currently seeking an R&D Chemist to join our team in Dublin, Ohio. This role will play an important part in advancing our resin technologies, with a particular focus on developing solutions that address evolving sustainability, regulatory, processing, and performance requirements.
As a key technical member of the R&D organization, the R&D Chemist will lead new product and technology development and advance our understanding of the structure-property relationships that influence resin processing, laminate formation, and end-use performance.
Success in this role requires strong technical expertise combined with the ability to collaborate across the organization. The R&D Chemist will work closely with scientists, laboratory technicians, Technical Service, Manufacturing, Sales, and Product Management to translate technical insights into practical, commercially relevant solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:
Lead short and long-term R&D projects focused on new technology development, resin formulation, and product performance.
Develop and evaluate new resin technologies designed to address sustainability, regulatory, processing, and customer application requirements.
Apply a strong understanding of polymer and organic chemistry to investigate structure-property relationships and guide formulation and technology development.
Design, execute, analyze, and interpret laboratory experiments to advance technical understanding and accelerate development.
Partner cross-functionally to troubleshoot customer and manufacturing challenges, resolve product quality issues, and identify opportunities to improve product performance, productivity, and efficiency.
Translate technical findings into clear recommendations and effectively communicate results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Manage projects from concept through development and commercialization, balancing technical priorities, timelines, and business requirements.
Maintain appropriate technical documentation and ensure work is conducted in accordance with applicable safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
Travel up to 20% as needed to support customers, manufacturing sites, and business priorities.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field preferred.
Demonstrated expertise in polymer chemistry, resin development, formulation, or related materials science.
Experience with unsaturated polyester resins, vinyl ester resins, thermoset polymers, composites, or related technologies is strongly preferred.
Strong experimental design, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities, including experience applying statistical design of experiments where appropriate.
Demonstrated ability to independently manage technical projects and drive work from concept through completion.
Self-motivated, well-organized, persistent, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a collaborative environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively across functions.
Strong project management skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with R&D, Manufacturing, Technical Service, Sales, and Product Management.
ALTA Performance Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable local law. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business needs.
