Product Development Chemist

Job Description
The Research Chemist will be responsible for leading product and formulation development projects in support of Stepan's Consumer Products business. Projects will be of varying nature and incorporate a range of different activities such as proof-of-concept, scale up and troubleshooting. Primary responsibilities for the role will include independently conducting bench tasks like physical characterization, sample generation, application-relevant performance evaluation, and new method development. In addition, the candidate will be required to design research plans and analyze and interpret experimental results within the context of the specific problem at hand, as well as document and communicate outcomes to stakeholders. The candidate is also expected to regularly review scientific literature and leverage learnings to increase subject matter expertise and propose creative solutions to challenges they or others face.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on expertise in surfactant chemistries and their applications within formulated systems. Also, bring prior experience developing and evaluating formulations for consumer markets such as personal care, fabric care, or household cleaning. Strong project management abilities, effective cross-functional collaboration, and confident communication skills are essential. Experience working directly with customers or suppliers is highly valued, along with a solid understanding of industry trends in at least one of these markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake the technical development of surfactant-based formulations and related chemical solutions to meet customer or market needs.
• Develop experimental plans for short and long-term projects, using DOE and other computer-based techniques.
• Undertake proof-of-concept studies and basic exploration of new product ideas to determine their feasibility.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and champion initiatives as project manager or subject matter expert.
• Identify and utilize technical information relevant to ongoing projects to ensure a sound direction of ongoing research.
• Provide guidance and support to junior chemists and participate in activities like technical training and brainstorming sessions for employees and customers.
• Contribute to product sales and profit growth through technical knowledge and customer interaction.
• Generate electronic lab notebook documentation, technical reports and presentations to enable clear communication and alignment with other team members.
• Lead safety/waste programs and steadfastly adheres to safety policies/standards.

Qualifications

• 9 years of relevant industry experience.

  
  

• 7 years of industrial laboratory experience.

  
  

• 3 years of project management experience.

  
  
• Experience in physical-chemistry characterization techniques related to surfactant-based products.
• Significant experience in utilizing various computer platforms to analyze, interpret and report experimental data.
• Sound formulation expertise that enables them to conduct data analysis and interpret scientific results based on their understanding of how surfactants function in the system.
• Ability to independently plan and carry out application testing and method development work.
• Sufficiently strong technical background that allows them to effectively review and apply technical information relevant to ongoing projects,including patents and regulations.
• Skills to troubleshoot issues in research projects, especially relying on their understanding of the relevant surfactants' behavior and expected challenges within the target system conditions.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to report project progress effectively based on experimental findings.
• Outstanding communication skills to successfully champion initiatives with stakeholders and customers.

Education

• B.S degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field is required.

Pay Range: $84,000 - $113,000
The salary range for this position is determined by considering a variety of factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and the location of the position.

At Stepan Company Our Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes

• Discretionary Bonus
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K with Match
• Profit Sharing
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD / LTD)
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Adoption Assistance
• Reactions – Recognition Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Stepan Company does not accept or retain unsolicited resumes or phone calls and/or respond to them or to any third party representing job seekers.
Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 22 global manufacturing locations and over 2,500 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.

We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.