Chemist

Rubber Chemist/Materials Scientist

Join to apply for the Rubber Chemist/Materials Scientist role at Lavelle Industries, Inc. The ideal candidate will focus on processes to develop new materials, expand capabilities, and gain technical knowledge that results in product improvement.

Why Lavelle? We are a unique organization rooted in values that emphasize problem‑solving and measurement mindsets. We may not be the biggest rubber company, but we are the market leader. We may dress casually – jeans daily – but we take our work seriously and offer competitive benefits and support.

This role offers astronomical possibilities to the right fit: work on a wide variety of projects and material applications, driving innovative solutions to customers. The Chemist/Materials Scientist will investigate substances at atomic and molecular levels and analyze their interactions.

• Assist R&D and Chemistry Lab staff by researching and understanding alternative materials for specified applications (new/improved product development).
• Contact current and potential suppliers of materials and equipment to understand manufacturing processes and obtain preliminary quote information.
• Analyze substances to determine their composition and concentration of elements.
• Plan and carry out complex research projects, such as development of new products and testing methods.
• Write technical reports that detail methods and findings.
• Present research findings to engineers, management and other colleagues.
• Instruct engineers and technicians on proper chemical processing and test procedures, including ingredients, mix times, and operating temperatures.
• Maintain material certifications to agencies like NSF, WRAS, ACS, and UL.
• Monitor product-level compliance based on chemical directives such as RoHS, REACH, CA Prop 65, and TSCA regulations.
• Support engineers and operations staff, investigate equipment and tooling options for both current and new processes and products.

• 2 to 4 years in a lab research environment.
• Experience in online research, including searches, dissemination of information, and summarization for team delivery.
• Rubber, rheology of rubber, and molding processing experience is required.
• Evidence of excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
• Capacity to learn new technologies or concepts rapidly and apply them to Lavelle’s needs.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field is required; an accelerated Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry is preferred.

Lavelle Industries is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Seniority level:
Entry level.

Employment type:

Full-time.