Expert Scientist

Description

FLSA Status: Exempt

Working Status: Full Time

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an accomplished and innovative Expert Scientist to lead the development of new step-growth technology platforms and drive technical excellence in support of business growth initiatives. This role requires a deep understanding of polymer chemistry and process engineering, with a focus on identifying and scaling breakthrough technologies as well as enhancing existing product lines. The Expert Scientist will provide strategic technical support to key customers, enabling new business opportunities, and will work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure seamless scale-up, resolve quality issues, and bridge knowledge gaps in emerging processes and technologies. This role is pivotal in translating innovation into commercial success while strengthening operational capabilities across the organization.

Requirements

  JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the synthesis and development of new materials and step-growth polymers, collaborating closely and regularly with key clients to co-develop next-generation products.
• Support full-scale commercialization efforts by optimizing chemical processes, ensuring product quality, and leading the scale-up from lab to plant.
• Provide hands-on support to global manufacturing plants by guiding them through unfamiliar technologies and ensuring seamless knowledge transfer and process adoption.
• Act as a recognized subject matter expert in urethane chemistry and step-growth polymer platforms, with external validation through peer-reviewed publications, patents, and industry recognition.
• Drive innovation in CASE (Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, Elastomers) applications with a strong emphasis on hot cast elastomers, maintaining a hands-on presence in the lab to develop advanced materials.
• Proactively identify, assess, and implement novel urethane technologies by leading applied research and collaborating with cross-functional global teams.
• Strategically build and protect the company’s intellectual property through robust patent filings and by ensuring freedom to operate for new technologies.
• Provide expert technical support to resolve quality issues in production and serve as a key liaison for technology transfer to manufacturing sites worldwide.
• Advise senior leadership on technology strategy and direction, using deep business and scientific insight to shape long-term R&D and innovation roadmaps.
• Serve as a mentor to technical staff across levels and disciplines, fostering internal capability development and cross-functional learning.
• Lead and participate in academic and cross-industry collaborations to stay at the forefront of technological advancement and to uncover new innovation opportunities.

KEY SKILLS:

• Advanced Polymer Chemistry – Deep expertise in urethane and step-growth polymer chemistry, with a focus on elastomers      and CASE applications.
• Client Collaboration – Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working directly with clients on product development initiatives.
• Scale-Up & Manufacturing Support – Experience in chemical process optimization, quality control, and scaling lab      formulations to commercial production.
• Innovation & IP Strategy – Demonstrated ability to innovate and develop a strong IP portfolio (patents, publications, FTO analysis).
• Technical Leadership – Recognized authority with the ability to guide R&D direction, mentor others, and influence across functions and regions.
• Hands-On Laboratory Work – Practical, lab-based synthesis and development skills, with a passion for applied research.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Ability to work across technical, commercial, and operational teams globally.
• Strategic Thinking – Business-savvy with the ability to align scientific innovation with commercial goals.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: PhD in Organic Chemistry or similar field (Synthetic Chemistry or Polymer Chemistry preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in synthetic organic chemistry/polymer chemistry is required, Urethanes specific experience is highly desired.
• This position also requires previous experience working in international projects/companies; strong project management experience; and demonstrated experience leading and/or mentoring a technical team.
• Successful candidate will have excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Minimal travel is required to production sites or clients as needed, approximately 10%.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: UBE Corporation America Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.