R&D Chemist

Job Description

As a chemist, you will play a pivotal role in utilizing lab-scale dispersing equipment to prepare and refine prototype samples. You will ensure consistency and accuracy in lab-scale prototype batches, collaborating closely with technical, operations, commercial, and production support teams. Your expertise will drive understanding of dispersion performance requirements in coatings, while engaging with suppliers to stay current on industry advancements and emerging market trends.

You will support manufacturing scale-up trials both on-site and off-site, providing technical observations and process improvement recommendations.

Position: R&D Chemist

• Utilize lab-scale dispersing equipment to prepare and refine prototype samples in accordance with established formulation and testing procedures.
• Prepare, validate, and document lab-scale prototype batches to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Collaborate with internal teams to understand dispersion performance requirements and manufacturing constraints.
• Engage with raw material and equipment suppliers to stay informed on industry advancements.
• Support manufacturing scale-up trials and provide technical observations and troubleshooting.
• Use prepared dispersions to make paint samples and perform standard testing.
• Investigate and resolve technical issues through root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Prepare clear and detailed internal reports and documentation for management review.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry
• 6-8 years of experience with dispersions, horizontal and basket milling
• Leadership experience
• Capable of safely handling paints and chemicals, with PPE.

This is a Permanent position based out of South Holland, IL.

The pay range for this position is $60,000.00 - $ per year.

Earned Bonus Structure – attendance bonuses, annual merit increases, and an annual incentive bonus plan.

Time Off & Holidays – 11 paid holidays each year, plus paid time off to support work-life balance.

Health & Retirement – comprehensive health and welfare plans, along with a 401(k) program featuring an exceptional company match.

Career Growth & Recognition – tuition reimbursement, employee recognition programs, and opportunities to grow within the organization.

Culture & Community – as part of the NPAA family, you’ll enjoy company events throughout the year celebrating and appreciating our employees’ hard work and dedication.

This is a fully onsite position in South Holland, IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 28, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.