Principal R&D Scientist - Chemical Manufacturing - Hickory, NC

About Our Client

My client is a well established, industry leader in the chemical manufacturing industry located just outside of Hickory, NC. They are known for working with specialty polymers which a variety of applications across a multitude of industries. They're a smaller company with multiple sites in the US and prioritize promoting from within, which has lead to happy employees with long tenure.

Job Description

In this role you will report directly into the R&D Manager and be responsible for:

• Researching, suggesting, and developing new products and projects to drive the organic growth of the company, with input from senior R&D staff or management.
• Recommending, planning, executing, generating or obtaining results, and evaluating data from all experiments, lab and/or production scale, in consultation with management.
• Preparing all required reports and project presentations as directed.
• Adhering to all Design Control Procedures, Safety Policies, Environmental Policies, and other facility requirements where work is conducted.
• Supporting and collaborating with company personnel as needed and recommended to achieve project goals.
• Attending all team meetings related to assigned projects.
• Organizing and convening additional meetings as necessary to ensure project success.
• Providing technical support to Marketing, Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and other Product Development staff as needed.
• Interacting with customers, sales, technical service, quality control, production, and suppliers under guidance.
• Recommending and attending external meetings and conferences.
• Participating in training for self-improvement.
• Conducting literature searches, including related technical papers and patents, as needed.

MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.

The Successful Applicant

The successful candidate will have:

• Masters or PhD in Chemistry, Material Science, or related field
• 15+ years of experience
• Demonstrated product development experience
• Material analysis, testing and evaluation techniques
• Extensive thermoplastic and thermoset polymer knowledge
• Solid and Particle emulsion and dispersion experience
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast paced environment
• Exceptional presenting and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage time effectively and balance multiple projects

What's on Offer

The candidate will receive:

• Competitive salary and potential for salary growth
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and vacation/sick leave
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• A positive work environment that values collaboration and innovation
• Work-life balance and flexible scheduling options
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and resources
• Engaging and challenging projects that foster skill development
• Supportive and inclusive company culture
• Networking opportunities within the industry
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.