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R&d Scientist

R&d Scientist

ActalentHickory, NC, US
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Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : R&D Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking an innovative and hands-on R&D Scientist to join our team in Hickory, NC. This role focuses on developing and formulating new products, supporting both innovation and ongoing technical needs. The ideal candidate will collaborate across R&D, Operations, Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing to drive commercialization and provide technical leadership. The position is highly lab-focused (60–70% hands-on lab work), with the remainder dedicated to reporting and data synthesis. The successful candidate will be creative, adaptable, and able to execute on new ideas in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

  • Research, develop, and formulate adhesives, sealants, and coatings aligned with business priorities.
  • Scale up R&D products into production and guide operations during trial runs.
  • Collaborate with QC to establish test methods and ensure product quality.
  • Manage project plans, timelines, and technical documentation; deliver presentations to internal and external audiences.
  • Provide technical support to cross-functional teams and contribute to a collaborative, innovative team environment.
  • Maintain accurate project documentation and support EHS and regulatory compliance.
  • Engage with global divisions, customers, and suppliers for product development and technology exchanges.
  • Travel up to 10% (domestic / international) may be required.

Essential Skills

  • Proven experience in developing and commercializing formulations, especially silicone-based materials.
  • Proficiency with FT-IR, DSC, TGA, GC-MS, GPC, and physical property testing.
  • Strong understanding of multiple chemistries and structure–property relationships.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, create and execute project plans, and synthesize data for reporting.
  • Demonstrated ability to think creatively, break barriers, and introduce new concepts or product lines.

    • Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with silicone-based materials (portfolio is silicone-focused).
  • Experience in coatings is highly desirable.
  • Familiarity with statistical design tools for experimental planning and analysis.
  • Ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a dynamic, customer-driven setting.
  • Experience with patent or literature reviews and presenting technical content.
  • Previous success in expanding product portfolios and introducing new technologies.
  • MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Science required; PhD in a related field is a plus.
  • 4+ years professional experience in adhesives, sealants, or coatings development, with proven success in product commercialization.

    • Work Environment

    The role involves significant hands-on lab work, focusing on formulating and testing products to solve specific problems. Approximately 60-70% of the time is spent in the lab, with the remaining time dedicated to report writing and data synthesis. Flexible work is possible, with a potential shift to a 50-50 lab-reporting balance.

    Job Type & Location

    This is a Permanent position based out of Hickory, North Carolina.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $85000.00 - $93000.00 / yr.

    Insurance, 401k, PTO, holiday

    Workplace Type

    This is a fully onsite position in Hickory,NC.

    Application Deadline

    This position is anticipated to close on Oct 17, 2025.

    About Actalent

    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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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    Rd • Hickory, NC, US