Application Chemist

We are looking for an Applications Chemist to join a dynamic coatings company. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilize your expertise in barrier coatings to formulate innovative products in the paper and packaging sector. You will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable product innovation and influencing the growth of a new product line focused on environmentally conscious solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent laboratory testing and application trials using established methods and experimental designs.
• Drive product development initiatives from concept through completion, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities and timelines.
• Operate laboratory equipment and instruments safely and efficiently, maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
• Document and communicate experimental findings clearly, including data analysis and interpretation.
• Provide technical recommendations based on test results to support customer needs and product performance.
• Collaborate with sales and customer teams to troubleshoot issues and deliver technical support.
• Maintain lab and storage areas, ensuring equipment is calibrated and functioning properly.
• Adhere to all safety and waste disposal protocols in accordance with internal and regulatory standards.
• Support training efforts for team members and cross-functional partners as needed.
• Contribute to both short- and long-term R&D initiatives focused on product innovation and performance optimization.
• Respond to customer inquiries with timely and accurate technical information.
• Serve as a technical resource for internal teams including Quality, Production, and Technical Services.
• Ensure compliance with relevant quality standards, including ISO 9001.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support team and business objectives.

• Experience with barrier coatings, water-based technology, paper barriers, moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), oxygen transmission rate (OTR), water resistance, and grease resistance.
• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, material science, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience working in barrier coatings, particularly with paper and packaging.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 standards.

• Experience with water-based technologies.
• Ability to adapt and think critically.
• Capability to think outside the box.
• Strong collaboration skills with R&D team and leadership.

You will be working in a laboratory setting as part of an R&D team consisting of two individuals and the R&D manager, within a broader lab team of 15 people. The position operates on a first shift schedule, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Itasca, Illinois.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $90000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

401k; medical, dental, vision benefits

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Itasca,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 8, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $90,000 - $100,000