R&D Scientist - Aerosols Division

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Chemist with deep expertise in aerosol coatings to join our R&D team in the Consumer Product Goods (CPG) sector. This role focuses on developing and optimizing aerosol coating products, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemistry, particularly in the formulation and application of aerosol products.

Technology Competency:

The R&D Scientist candidate will demonstrate and apply the following skills to their work.

• Strong understanding of Scientific Methodology. Hypothesis driven research and problem-solving capability using experimental design, data analysis and documentation.
• Coating Chemistries: alkyd, acrylic, epoxy, urethane, phenolic, polyaspartics and sil(ox)anes etc.
• Coating Formulation Science: Lead the design, development, and optimization of aerosol coating formulations, including paints, sprays, and specialty coatings for various consumer applications both solvent borne and waterborne
• Utilize in-depth knowledge of aerosol technology, including propellant systems, valve systems, and spray mechanisms, to develop high-performance products.
• Analytical science and material science with an emphasis on structure-property relationship

Technical Leadership:

• Ability to develop and implement project plans and timelines while managing multiple high level projects. Measuring progress and providing updates in alignment with marketing
• Demonstrated capability of becoming a vocal and influential voice in project planning and deliverables together in collaboration with a cross functional team
• Ability to make strategic decisions (technical and staff utilization) and influence leaders and scientist to execute those initiative while managing business strategy and value creation
• Outstanding technical skills, interpersonal communication, and presentation skills. The R&D Scientist must demonstrate and apply the following skills.
• Drive product innovation by researching and integrating new raw materials, technologies, and methodologies into aerosol formulations to enhance performance, durability, and user experience.
• Proven track record of identifying, researching and prototyping innovative ideas.
• Address and resolve complex formulation and application challenges, including issues related to stability, compatibility, and application efficacy
• Continuous learning and intimate awareness of open literature and competitive landscape
• The R&D Scientist works to assist in the allocation of resources towards initiatives by working with the leadership team to identify long term platform strategies
• The R&D Scientist demonstrates the ability to have influence in decision making and a demonstrated ability to communicate with project stakeholders and cross-functional teams, leadership and the external scientific community

Organization Leadership:

The R&D Scientist should exhibit the following attributes:

• Agility to respond to emerging business needs with strong management of change skills
• Builds strong partnerships internally within R&D, internal functions (marketing, manufacturing, sourcing, etc.) and externally (vendors, customers, etc.)
• Manage high stakes and challenging situations with all levels of the organization
• Assess the organizational processes and develop new processes to improve efficiency and quality
• Demonstrate strong career ambition – potential to become a top leader
• Strong business acumen

Education Guidelines

• BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials, or other equivalent scientific field required
• MS or PhD strongly preferred

Rust-Oleum is an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, or any other protected class.