New

Biodegradation Microbiologist

Eastman Chemical Company
parental leave, paid time off, paid holidays, 401(k)
United States, Tennessee, Kingsport
Jan 15, 2026
Biodegradation Microbiologist Job Requisition ID: 55791 Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company's innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2024 revenue of approximately $9.4 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visitwww.eastman.com. Responsibilities This posting is for a Microbiologist within the Corporate Analytical Divisionlocatedin Kingsport, TN. The positionwill supportinnovation teams within Eastman byproviding bio-analyticalexpertiseand testing with particular emphasis on biodegradation and industrial microbiology. The ideal candidate will have broad, fundamental knowledge and experience in industrial microbiology, and preferably have specific knowledge and experience in biodegradation, microbial detection, and population characterization. She/he will conduct biodegradability studies, including analysis of the mechanisms of biodegradation for Eastman chemistries, and manage external (official) testing studies. The selected individual willbe responsible fortranslating biodegradability parameters into product concepts andsupportdevelopment of concepts into commercial products. Additionally, the role requires participation on multi-disciplinary teams, working with quality systems and government and industry regulated testing, developing hands-on and in-depth technical expertise, documenting work in technical reports, writing SOPs and test methods, and working in a fast paced, results-oriented team environment. A successful candidate will: * Design, conduct, evaluate, and document internal and external biodegradation tests. * Buildappropriate testingcapabilities and capacities to meet evolving analytical needs. * Provideexpertisein microbiology and biodegradation to address internal needs and partner in customer engagement across multiple products and applications. * Develop relationships and collaborate effectively with internal subject matter experts and external partners including customers, independent laboratories, and universities. * Communicate results effectively to business, marketing, technology, and manufacturing stakeholders. * Travel to domestic and international locations to support internal clientsand forcustomer engagements, industry tradeshows, technical conferences, and regulatory body meetings. Qualifications Doctorate degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Environmental Science or Engineering, OR Doctorate degree in a related field with 2+ years of experience in a bioanalytical role with preferred experience in biodegradation. Experience in Biodegradation strongly preferred (e.g. OECD 301B or 301F). Experience with polymer interaction with biology strongly preferred. Customer-facing experience strongly preferred. Located in Kingsport, TN. Travel (up to 10% of time) to domestic and international locations. Benefits Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career. Compensation & Incentives * Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success. Health & Wellness * Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage-paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future. * A robust menu of voluntary benefits-including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more-so you can tailor coverage to fit your life. * Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling. Retirement & Financial Strategies * 401(k) with a company match-plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings. Time Away * Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life's moments. Growth & Development * Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career. At Eastman, we invest in the whole you-so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you're proud of. Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law. Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engagedworkplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day. Nearest Major Market: Asheville Nearest Secondary Market: Knoxville Job Segment: Chemical Research, Chemical Engineer, R&D Engineer, Scientific, R&D, Engineering, Research