Polymer Synthesis Chemist
hace 4 días
Charlotte
Job Description We are an emerging technology company hiring A+ players only. As a fast-growing venture-backed advanced materials manufacturer of protective coatings, DetraPel is looking to expand its team to support hyper growth during this next chapter. Previously featured on ABC’s Shark Tank, DetraPel manufactures non-toxic, PFAS-free functional barrier coatings for industrial and consumer applications in Textiles, Paper & Food Packaging, and Contract Aerosol Manufacturing. The Polymer Synthesis Chemist role is a full-time, in-person position focused on designing, synthesizing, and scaling bio-based and non-bio-based polymers that meet target barrier and durability requirements. You will own polymer platform development, design and execute lab-scale polymerizations, design and execute characterization and testing, translate results into application-ready formulations, and lead cross-functional work with Applications, Formulation, Operations, and Manufacturing to move programs from lab to pilot to production. You will mentor junior team members and drive continuous improvement. Compensation: $125,000 - $140,000 yearly Responsibilities: Your Day To Day: Polymer Design and Synthesis (40%) • Design and execute polymerizations, including controlled, free radical, step growth, and core-shell approaches., • Select monomers, crosslinkers, surfactants, catalysts, and additives to meet cost, safety, and performance targets., • Own reaction planning, setup, feeds, in-process monitoring, and post-processing., • Maintain detailed batch records and author clear SOPs. Characterization and Data Analysis (20%) • Analyze reports of FTIR, GPC, DSC, and NMR as available. Summarize data in concise reports and presentations., • Execute and document TGA, rheology, particle size, and solids testing as applicable., • Link structure and process variables to key properties such as barrier performance, film formation, adhesion, and flexibility. Formulation and Application Transfer (25%) • Work with Applications and Formulation Chemists to convert neat polymers into final formulations for textiles, paper, and packaging., • Define critical parameters such as solids, viscosity, and cure profile to hit end-use specs. Process Optimization and Scale Up (10%) • Develop process optimizations and scale-up procedures for pilot and production., • Run pilot batches with Operations and Manufacturing, define process windows, and author tech transfer documents and control plans. Safety, Quality, and Lab Operations (5%) • Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols and good documentation practices., • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment., • Calibrate and care for lab equipment and manage basic lab inventory.Qualifications:, • Education: Master’s degree in Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, or Materials Science preferred. Bachelor’s degree considered with a strong record of achievement., • Experience: 7+ years of demonstrated hands-on ownership from synthesis through characterization, formulation transfer, pilot execution, and tech transfer., • Understanding of bio-based and non-bio-based polymer synthesis., • Fully versed in controlled, free radical, step growth, and core shell polymerizations., • Able to interpret FTIR, GPC, DSC, and NMR data., • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word with strong data organization and reporting skills., • Plus factors include familiarity with coatings testing, such as viscosity, solids, contact angle, COBB, or KIT, where applicable., • Detail-oriented, organized, and safety-minded; capable of following and writing SOPs., • Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and communicate well across R&D, Operations, and Manufacturing., • Excellent project management and organizational skills., • Adaptable and proactive. Ready to pivot and handle ad-hoc needs.About Company DetraPel is the leading provider of performance coatings for various industrial and consumer verticals. We specialize in developing plastic-free, PFAS-free (100% fluorine-free) coatings that provide superior performance without sacrificing sustainability. DetraPel's brands create products for diverse markets, including paper, food packaging, textiles, and healthcare. Our technologies enhance the durability, resistance, and performance of various substrates while still maintaining recyclability, composability, and reliability. Benefits: • Unlimited PTO, • Company healthcare benefits + vision + dental, • 401(k) with company match, • Company-sponsored professional development fund, • Company-sponsored athletic country club membership, • A fun and rewarding place to work with a collaborative team environment, • Quarterly team events