Welcome to the LASCT Employment Page. Whether you are looking for a job in the paint and coatings industry, or your company is looking for a new employee, we’re here to help. The LASCT provides this job listing service to its members free of charge. The information that you find here will be updated quarterly.

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Eunice Leung
Covestro
Email

Life Specialty Coatings has an opening for an R&D Chemist in Santa Fe Springs, CA

Please send resume to [email protected]

Job Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative R&D Chemist to join our team.
This role is responsible for the research and development of new coating formulations, improvements to existing products, and reducing raw material costs. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in coatings chemistry and the ability to manage projects from concept through production scale-up.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research and development for current and upcoming projects in coatings formulation.
• Investigate ways to enhance existing products and reduce raw material costs without compromising quality.
• Research and maintain relationships with current and potential vendors to identify technologies/materials relevant to project goals.
• Acquire samples and technical data from suppliers to meet project specifications.
• Bench formulas and prepare lab samples for performance testing.
• Conduct tests to evaluate product performance based on required specifications.
• Document all work thoroughly in Click-Up project management software.
• Report progress and findings to the Plant Manager.
• Manage scale-up from lab to production, ensuring smooth transition and accurate formulation.
• Update all formulas (including test batches), QC requirements, and new material data in Acumatica ERP system.
• Meet deadlines and performance standards outlined per project expectations.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production and quality control teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field (advanced degree preferred).
• Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience in coatings R&D or a similar field.
• Strong understanding of coatings raw materials and formulation practices.
• Experience in testing and performance evaluation of coatings (e.g., adhesion, abrasion, weatherability).
• Proficiency in lab work and transitioning formulas to full-scale production.
• Familiarity with Click-Up, Acumatica, or similar project/ERP systems is a plus.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Self-starter with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.