R&D Sr. Chemist

The R&D Senior Chemist is responsible for conducting specialized analyses, testing, and the formulation of new products, with a focus on latex and water-borne resin synthesis. This role involves developing and refining chemical formulations, executing moderate-scale projects or components of larger initiatives, and establishing quality standards. The Senior Chemist independently manages the commercialization of new resin while collaborating closely with manufacturing teams to support scale-up and production. With expertise in polymer synthesis and coating formulations, the chemist provides technical leadership across multiple product lines, applications, and markets. Additionally, this role may include supervising support-level technicians and mentoring entry-level chemists.

Job duties include contact with other employees and access to confidential and proprietary information and/or other items of value, and such access may be supervised or unsupervised. The Company therefore has determined that a review of criminal history is necessary to protect the business and its operations and reputation and is necessary to protect the safety of the Company's staff, employees, and business relationships.

Responsibilities:

• Lead or support NPD projects from concept to commercialization, including planning and executing R&D investigations under the guidance of the Synthesis Technical Manager. Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Analytical/Material Science, Process Chemistry, HSE, and Business teams to drive project success and align on shared goals.
• Conduct lab-scale WB resin synthesis (emulsion, polyurethane dispersion...) and develop coating formulations. Perform application testing, analyze data, refine technical strategies, and recommend the next steps. Document and communicate findings through presentation and technical reports.
• Apply experimental design principles to deepen understanding and develop innovative solutions aligned with project objectives.
• Review patents and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation and product development.
• Act as a technical liaison, addressing moderately complex inquiries from manufacturing, quality control, and internal stakeholders regarding development activities.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration and cleanliness. Use both standard and specialized instruments as needed.
• Provide guidance or supervision to technicians, junior chemists, or support staff on research activities.
• Ensure compliance with departmental policies, safety protocols, and applicable regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the R&D and NPD functions.

BASIC QUALIFICATION:
* 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).
* Must be at least 18 years of age

FORMAL EDUCATION:
Required:
* Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics ("STEM") field

Preferred:
* Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry or related area

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:
Required:
* 5 or more years polymer synthesis lab experience

Preferred:
* 5-7 years of polymer synthesis and coatings specific industry experience
* In-depth understanding of polymer structure-property relationships and coating formulation.
* Proficiency in emulsion polymerization highly desired
* Proficiency in Polyurethane dispersion and PUD/Acrylic hybrid highly desired

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
10%

Upon completion of construction, the individual selected for this role will primarily work at the new Sherwin-Williams Global Technology Center in Brecksville, Ohio. Construction is expected to be complete in 2025. Until then, the role will be based at Breen Technology Center, located at 601 Canal Road, Cleveland, OH 44113.