Axalta Coating Systems is seeking an experienced resin synthesis expert and R&D Manager to join the R&D team and lead resin synthesis programs. This assignment will be located at Axalta’s Global Innovation Center (GIC) in Philadelphia, PA. This role is responsible for leading a team of scientists and technicians responsible for new resin synthesis to support product development teams across Axalta businesses. In addition to leading a team, this person will lead their own resin project in support of a larger product development effort.
Key Responsibilities:
As a team manager, the role is responsible to:
Manage synthesis project and related R&D projects within team.
Lead a small team of scientists (:2) and technicians (:10) that build new resin process and structure/function relationships.
Manage performance cycle for all team members (monthly one on one meetings, goal setting, continuous feedback, end-of-year performance review, promotion documentation). Help co-create development plans for team members.
Identify opportunities for personal and team improvement though thoughtful analysis of yearly team and organizational surveys (i.e. Perceptx).
Setting expectations for team, managing time approvals/corrections, and organizing 4dayx10hr schedules for participating technicians
Stay abreast of application technology innovations and translate new technology and processes to commercial products.
As a resin project leader, the role is responsible to:
Generate innovative approaches to designing new polymers that provide superior performance over existing systems and deliver competitive advantage.
Define synthesis strategies for new polymers for use in advanced coatings.
Ensure on time delivery of new polymer designs through effective project management discipline, including project planning, collaboration, technical reviews and communication.
Define a rational design of polymer architectures to achieve targeted properties.
Characterize polymer microstructure and macroscopic properties (thermal, rheological and mechanical)
Define testing protocols to correlate polymer structure with desired properties.
Collaborate with a multi-faceted, global team in the development of improved polymers for coating systems in multiple market segments.
Work with multiple functions within the organization to drive product development activities to commercialization.
Organize work flow, including setting and meeting key deadlines.
Collaborate with peers and senior fellows to investigate and agree on polymer design strategies.
Basic Qualifications:
Ideal candidate will possess an advanced degree in Chemistry; PhD in Organic/Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science or Materials Science strongly preferred
Relevant industrial experience, including experience with the synthesis of emulsions, acrylics or polyurethanes for use in surface coatings.
Demonstrated ability to work and contribute to a team environment.
Management/supervisory experience leading a technical team.
The successful candidate will have expert resin synthesis knowledge and experience working within product development teams that focused on formulating solventborne and/or waterborne coatings.
Capability to adapt to rapidly evolving market with loosely defined objectives.
Excellent written & oral communication skills to internal and customer audiences.
Project management and experience with Stage-Gate process
Candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills.
Candidate must hit project deadline and meet organizational commitments.
Share Axalta’s values of integrity, critical thinking, effort, and efficiency.
Candidate must have a working proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Willingness and ability to travel (
Our Company:
Axalta has remained at the forefront of the coatings industry by continually investing in innovative solutions. We engineer technologies that protect customers’ products – whether they are battling heat, light, corrosion, abrasion, moisture, or chemicals – and add dimension and beauty with colorful finishes. We have a vast and ever-evolving portfolio of brands primed to play an important part in everything from modernizing infrastructure around the world to enabling the next generation of electric and autonomous vehicles.
Axalta operates its business in two segments: Performance Coatings and Mobility Coatings, which serve four end markets, including Refinish, Industrial, Light Vehicle and Commercial Vehicle, across North America, EMEA, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Our diverse global footprint allows us to deliver solutions in over 140+ countries and coat 30 million vehicles per year. We’ve recently set an exciting 2040 carbon neutrality goal, in addition to 10 other sustainability initiatives, and we take pride in working with our customers to optimize their businesses and achieve their goals.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Information Technology
Industries
Chemical Manufacturing
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