Manager, R&D; Electronic Coatings

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Founded in 1946 we have grown to become a global specialty chemicals company that is a leading manufacturer of protective materials for high-reliability applications across diverse market sectors.

Today we employ nearly 800 people and continue to grow and strengthen our business by employing a related diversification strategy that combines organic growth initiatives with strategic acquisitions.

Based in Westwood, Massachusetts, USA we operate manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia and continue to invest in our capabilities in order to deliver value to our global customer base demands

Role Overview

Chase Corporation is seeking a seasoned and proactive Manager, R&D (Humi Seal) to lead the development and commercialization of applied coatings within the Humi Seal product line. This individual will be responsible for managing a small team of scientists and technicians and for coordinating internal R&D efforts that directly support product growth and innovation.

The successful candidate will bring deep technical knowledge in polymer coatings and adhesives, along with strong leadership and project management capabilities. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring frequent cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the R&D team supporting the Humi Seal product line, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration.
• Align R&D priorities with business objectives and manage NPD project timelines, adjusting scope and resources as needed.
• Champion cross-functional efforts for technology transfer, pilot trials, and field testing to ensure successful commercialization.
• Support M&A efforts through R&D due diligence, capability assessment, and integration of acquired technologies and teams.

Technical & Product Development

• Leverage expertise in polyurethane, epoxy, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and coatings to develop differentiated solutions for targeted end markets.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to identify product development opportunities and translate customer needs into technical specifications.
• Support raw material sourcing, qualification, and supplier evaluation in partnership with procurement and quality.

Manufacturing & Quality Support

• Provide technical support to operations and quality teams across multiple manufacturing sites, including hands-on troubleshooting and scale-up guidance.
• Ensure product compliance with ISO 9001 standards and support internal, external, and customer audits.
• Promote and uphold safety protocols at the Westwood R&D site.

Strategic R&D Leadership

• Represent the Humi Seal R&D team in broader functional meetings and strategic planning initiatives.
• Track and report KPIs, project milestones, and resource utilization to senior leadership.
• Serve as a collaborative partner across Chase business units to identify synergies and share best practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in product development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing R&D teams or technical programs.
• Strong background in coatings, adhesives, and related chemistries.
• Familiarity with stage-gate NPD processes and project management tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive innovation in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% to support manufacturing, customer, and field trial activities.

Education

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline. Equivalent industry experience may be considered.

• Seniority level
  
  Mid-Senior level

• Employment type
  
  Full-time

• Job function
  
  Management, Engineering, and Research
• Industries Chemical Manufacturing and Paint, Coating, and Adhesive Manufacturing

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Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Paid paternity leave

Paid maternity leave

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