R&D Formulations Specialist

R&D Formulations Specialist

SIMONA America Industries, a leading manufacturer of high-performance thermoplastic sheet products, is seeking an experienced R&D Formulations Specialist to join our Technical team. This position is responsible for developing innovative thermoplastic formulations and improving existing products and manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate possesses strong chemistry and polymer science knowledge, hands-on laboratory and manufacturing experience. This individual will collaborate closely with Production, Quality, Sales, and Technical teams while supporting customer needs and driving product innovation.

Essential Functions:

• Develop new thermoplastic formulations for PVC, polyolefin, fluoropolymer, and other specialty sheet products.
• Conduct laboratory formulation work, including material preparation, mixing, compounding, and small-scale extrusion trials.
• Perform laboratory testing on development, pilot, and production samples.
• Troubleshoot formulation and processing issues during laboratory, pilot, and production trials.
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee production trials.
• Interface with technical personnel at other SIMONA facilities to share technical knowledge and best practices.
• Provide technical support to customers regarding product performance and material selection.

Required

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Plastics Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of three (3) years of manufacturing experience, preferably within the plastics industry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Preferred Experience:

• Three to five years of plastics formulation experience.
• Experience with sheet extrusion processes.
• Chemistry or engineering degree

Competencies:

• Technical aptitude
• Analytical thinking
• Problem solving
• Attention to detail
• Project management
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Initiative and innovation

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

• This is a full-time, salary exempt position, Monday through Friday.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Work Environment:

• This position works in a combination of laboratory, manufacturing, and office environments. The employee will routinely use laboratory equipment, powder blending equipment, extrusion equipment, testing instruments, and standard office equipment.
• Exposure to manufacturing noise, moving machinery, heat, and raw materials should be expected. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in manufacturing and laboratory areas.

Physical Demands:

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee will regularly:
• Stand and walk for extended periods
• Lift and carry up to 30 pounds
• Reach, bend, and stoop
• Handle laboratory materials and equipment
• Operate computers and testing instruments
• Communicate effectively with employees and customers

Travel:

• Occasional travel (approximately 10–20%) may be required to:
• Visit customers
• Support production trials
• Visit other SIMONA manufacturing facilities
• Attend technical meetings or industry conferences

AAP/EEO Statement:

• SIMONA America Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Other Duties:

• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without