Job Description

*** This is a regional search in an attempt to draw talent from the city to our company in a more rural location. 100% on site. Great relocation assistance provided. ***

Job Title: Senior Scientist – PVC Polymer Formulation

Location: PA

Employment Type: Full-Time

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Scientist with over 10 years of specialized expertise in the formulation of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) polymers. The successful candidate will lead innovative research and development projects to design, optimize, and scale high-performance PVC formulations for diverse applications. This role requires deep technical knowledge, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet industry standards and customer needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Formulation Development: Design and develop advanced PVC formulations, optimizing for performance, durability, cost, and regulatory compliance across applications (e.g., pipes, cables, films, medical devices, etc.).
• Research & Innovation: Lead R&D initiatives to explore novel additives, stabilizers, plasticizers, and processing techniques to enhance PVC properties such as thermal stability, flexibility, and recyclability.
• Process Optimization: Collaborate with manufacturing teams to scale formulations from lab to production, ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency in processing methods like extrusion, injection molding, or calendaring.
• Testing & Validation: Oversee rigorous testing of formulations for mechanical, chemical, and environmental performance, utilizing ASTM, ISO, or other relevant standards. Analyze data to refine formulations.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure formulations meet industry regulations (e.g., REACH, RoHS, FDA) and sustainability goals, including reducing environmental impact and improving recyclability.
• Technical Leadership: Mentor junior scientists, provide technical guidance to cross-functional teams, and present findings to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Project Management: Lead multiple projects simultaneously, managing timelines, budgets, and deliverables to align with business objectives.
• Industry Trends: Stay abreast of advancements in PVC technology, competitor products, and market demands to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.

Qualifications:

• Education: Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience:
• 10+ years of hands-on experience in PVC polymer formulation, with a proven track record of developing commercially successful products.
• Expertise in additives (stabilizers, plasticizers, fillers, lubricants) and their impact on PVC performance.
• Strong knowledge of PVC processing techniques (extrusion, compounding, molding) and scale-up from lab to production.
• Skills:
• Advanced analytical skills with proficiency in tools like DSC, TGA, FTIR, rheometry, and mechanical testing.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (e.g., FDA, EPA, EU regulations) for PVC applications.
• Excellent project management and communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical data to diverse audiences.
• Collaborative mindset with experience mentoring teams and working with cross-functional groups (R&D, production, quality assurance, sales).
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with sustainable PVC formulations (bio-based plasticizers, recycled PVC, or low-VOC systems).
• Patents or publications in the field of polymer science or PVC technology.
• Knowledge of adjacent polymer systems (e.g., polyolefins, polyurethanes) is a plus.

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