Chemist in Bloomington,CA,US

Note:

This position is located in a chemical manufacturing environment - not a clean room environment. Applicants must have experience working with chemicals outside of a pharmaceutical environment .

Preferred:

5 years of experience in solvent-based paints and coatings . This position plays a crucial role in driving research, development, and optimization of composite materials . The role is responsible for leading and managing multiple projects and collaborating with cross-functional teams to innovate, design, and implement advanced composite solutions. Your expertise will contribute directly to the success of projects and the advancement of the company's position as a market leader in the composite industry. This role involves the formulation, testing, and optimization of advanced materials used in high-performance applications such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and similar industries. You will play a key role in R D efforts, process development, and quality assurance , contributing to innovative product solutions and technical problem-solving. Key Responsibilities Conduct formulation and testing of composite materials, including resins, adhesives, and fiber reinforcements . Develop and optimize chemical processes for composite manufacturing. Perform chemical and physical property testing . Collaborate with R D teams to create innovative composite solutions based on customer or market requirements . Analyze raw materials and finished products to ensure conformance to specifications and quality standards. Investigate and troubleshoot formulation or production issues through root cause analysis . Maintain detailed laboratory records, technical reports, and documentation in compliance with internal standards. Ensure safe handling and disposal of chemicals while maintaining compliance with EHS regulations. Collaborate with suppliers and external laboratories on material evaluations and analytical support. Stay updated on new materials, technologies, and industry trends to support innovation. Support product lifecycle management , including improvements to existing formulations. Assist in regulatory submissions and maintain compliance with applicable regulations. Train and mentor junior chemists or lab technicians in procedures and best practices. Present technical findings or recommendations to vendors, customers, or management. Lead research projects focused on developing novel composite materials . Design and formulate composite materials with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties . Conduct in-depth analysis of material properties and provide data-driven recommendations for improvement. Work closely with technical leadership and operations teams to ensure practical application and manufacturability of developed composites. Support operations reporting requirements to government agencies , including AQMD, CARB, stormwater, hazardous waste disposal, and ISO reporting. Assist in management of formulations through internal databases and support QA systems (ISO, ECC, etc.). Mentor junior chemists and lab technicians while fostering a collaborative research environment . Work cross-functionally with sales, manufacturing, customer support, and quality teams to integrate materials into final products. Identify opportunities for innovation and process improvement . Create and maintain up-to-date SDS and TDS documentation for all products. Operate laboratory equipment such as Instron systems, QUV weathering testers , and other testing instruments. Perform other duties as assigned by management. Qualifications Experience with paints, coatings, and composite materials . Proven track record of leading successful research projects and bringing innovative products to market. Ability to write professional and coherent technical reports . Physically able to work in both laboratory and production environments . Strong analytical mindset with the ability to perform root cause analysis and reverse engineering. Strong leadership and team management skills . Excellent communication and collaboration abilities . Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. 2-5 years of industry experience in composites, polymers, or materials development preferred. Familiarity with mechanical testing methods such as tensile, flexural, and impact testing. Knowledge of chemical safety and regulatory compliance (OSHA, REACH, RoHS). Strong attention to detail with documentation and reporting skills . Ability to interpret technical data and translate findings into actionable insights . Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams .

Job Details Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Health insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Employee assistance program Paid time off Retirement plan