Job Description

The Research Chemist will be responsible for leading new product development projects in support of Stepan’s Consumer Products business. Projects will be managed from conception through the commercialization process. Primary responsibilities for the role will include developing formulations at the bench, leading junior chemists, interacting with customers and managing technical projects.

The ideal candidate will have working knowledge in formulation development and performance evaluation methods relevant to consumer products. People and project management expertise are required. Industry experience in consumer markets like personal care, fabric care and/or household cleaning is required. Customer and/or supplier interfacing in prior roles is preferred. Sustainability, data science and regulatory acumen are a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Undertake the technical development of surfactant-based formulations and related chemical solutions to meet customer or market needs.
• Independently develop experimental plans for short and long-term projects, using DOE and other techniques.
• Take leadership roles within cross-functional project teams.
• Undertake proof-of-concept studies and basic exploration of new product ideas to determine their feasibility.
• Regularly review technical information relevant to ongoing projects, including patents and regulations.
• Adopt and implement rapid screening techniques developed by other teams.
• Contribute to product sales and profit growth through technical knowledge and customer interaction.
• Generate ELN documentation, technical reports, presentations, patents and other documentation to ensure communication, compliance and value creation.
• Consider and prioritize sustainability aspects when developing or improving Stepan technologies.
• Lead safety/waste programs and steadfastly adheres to safety policies/standards.

Qualifications

• 8 years of relevant industry experience is required. 10 years preferred.
• Minimum 8+ years of laboratory experience. This includes hands-on experience with various lab techniques and equipment.
• Minimum 3+ years of people and project management experience.
• Strong formulation skills to conduct comprehensive data analysis and interpret complex scientific results.
• Proficiency in application testing and method development, including proof-of-concept and rapid screening.
• Ability to troubleshoot issues with research projects and safely handle various chemicals and reagents.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to communicate project progress effectively based on experimental findings.

Education

• B.S degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field is required.

Pay Range: $84,000 - $113,000

The salary range for this position is determined by considering a variety of factors such as skills, experience, qualifications, and the location of the position.

At Stepan Company our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Discretionary Bonus
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K with Match
• Profit Sharing
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD / LTD)
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Adoption Assistance
• Reactions – Recognition Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

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Stepan Company does not accept or retain unsolicited resumes or phone calls and/or respond to them or to any third party representing job seekers.

Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 22 global manufacturing locations and over 2,500 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.

We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.