Research & Development Chemist

R&D Chemist POSITION SUMMARY

The R&D Chemist is responsible for Asphalt identification and implementation that allows Atlas to remain competitive in the Shingles and Underlayment market. The role will analyze product performance through lab analysis and work to improve performance and quality while driving costs down. This role will be responsible for overseeing and assisting in testing raw materials and finished products, as well as assisting Manufacturing with process improvement. Works with raw material suppliers to identify potential cost-effective materials that can improve performance. Must have strong analytical skills, statistical skills and communication skills. Supervises the Lab Engineer and Lab activities.

R&D Chemist ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (Other duties as assigned)

• Develop intelligent responses to industry challenges and opportunities that result from competitive product threats and/or regulatory activity based on data driven analysis.
• Identify strategic technology activities and provide technical expertise to support manufacturing and sales initiatives required to grow Atlas' market position through formulation, chemistry, product design and applications development.
• Direct the raw material vendor research and development technical projects for innovative solutions to competitive challenges in the market.
• Assist in chemistry and process education at the plants.
• Knowledge of corporate technical strategy and direction.
• Access and knowledge of all raw material and process specifications and product specifications and requirements.
• Knowledge of all research and development projects.
• Maintain contact with suppliers and vendors outside the corporation and with the purchasing departments.
• Oversee lab projects and clearly communicate results.
• Work with Raw Material Suppliers and other sources of potential new technology.
• Know product and raw material test methods to determine suitability of the test. Know the necessary product physical property requirements so product specifications can be developed and implemented.
• Make logical decisions concerning the analysis of data to propose changes in product or process.
• Evaluate data and samples to determine the representation of the products Atlas produces.
• Responsible for recommending changes based on reliable data that can have significant cost impact from either poor manufacturing efficiency, quality complaint costs, or raw material costs.
• Main areas will be Asphalt related products but may extend to other raw materials used in R&D
• When needed represent the corporation in SUL technical issues.
• Ability to travel up to 50% or more sometimes required. Must be flexible some projects may require time from home for extended periods.

R&D Chemist EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Four-year degree minimum preferred with chemical engineering or chemistry.
• SUL industry training and experience of five years desirable.
• Asphalt Chemistry is required
• Laboratory experience required.

R&D Chemist SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Proficient in the knowledge and use of personal computer equipment, office hardware, and certain lab equipment.
• Understanding of lab testing and the ability to evaluate data acquired through the testing process.
• Strong analytical chemistry background.
• Able to train, direct and influence the actions of others.
• Must have exceptional communication and analytical skills
• Analyze information and make decisions based on knowledge of the process and products being manufactured.

R&D Chemist PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• While performing the daily duties of this position, employee may stand up to five hours a day with the ability to alter positions every fifteen to thirty minutes, will sit up to two hours a day, and walk approximately one hour with the ability to alternate walking and sitting positions at will.
• Employee may occasionally push/pull, twist, reach above shoulder level, kneel, and use eye/hand/foot controls.
• Employee frequently grasp/squeeze/handles, touches/feels/keys, and flexes and extends wrist.
• This position requires the ability to lift and carry with 95% of the lifting/carrying being less than 10 pounds, 4% of lifting/carrying being between 11-20 pounds, and 1% of lifting/carrying being between 21-50 pounds.
• The use of both hands is required in this position.
• Employees in this position are evaluated primarily on production and work closely with co-workers.

R&D Chemist OTHER

• The duties of this job may vary slightly across divisions and locations. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

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