Senior Color Chemist

Peter-Lacke USA is seeking a true color matching expert to join our high-performance team in Troy, MI. This is not a general coatings role, we are looking for a precision-driven color scientist with a deep understanding of pigments, coatings chemistry, and color behavior in automotive and industrial applications. You will lead the development, matching, and adjustment of high-complexity color formulations with zero tolerance for visual or instrumental deviation.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a proven color authority; someone who instinctively understands the interplay of hue, lightness, chroma, and application methods. You should be confident taking ownership of complex color systems and able to independently resolve challenging color issues without relying on software defaults. We need someone who can operate at the pinnacle of technical color expertise, especially in demanding environments like OEM automotive coatings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently match and fine-tune complex waterborne and solventborne colors, including metallics and special effects, to exacting tolerances

• Research and propose new/alternative pigments for long-term color performance, sustainability, and compliance

• Conduct advanced pigment-related tests including accelerated weathering, lightfastness, and chemical resistance

• Ensure seamless scale-up and transfer of lab formulations to production with full color fidelity

• Operate and interpret data from spectrophotometers, gloss meters, and microscopes at an expert level

• Adjust spray parameters using manual and automated equipment (Spraymation) to reflect real-world application conditions

• Design and lead color testing matrices for internal qualification and OEM approval

• Maintain comprehensive, accurate documentation in electronic lab notebooks

• Act as the final authority on color approvals, able to justify decisions to customers, OEMs, and internal stakeholders

• Travel (5–15%) as needed for customer trials, troubleshooting, and OEM submissions

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, polymer science, or related field plus 3–5 years of elite-level color matching experience

– OR –

High School diploma with 10 years of hands-on expertise in pigment-rich coatings development

• Demonstrated mastery of color theory, color measurement (CIE Lab, ΔE), and visual evaluation

• Proven track record of developing and approving formulations, including challenging color systems (e.g., metallic, pearl, tinted clears)

• Strong understanding of SAE, ASTM, and/or DIN specs, as well as OEM color standards

• Proficient in data interpretation and color software tools (e.g., Datacolor, X-Rite)

• Must hold a valid driver’s license and passport

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working directly with OEM automotive color submissions

• Familiarity with global pigment suppliers, regulatory changes, and sustainability trends in coatings

• Experience managing color centers of excellence or mentoring junior technicians

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $90,000–$120,000 depending on experience

• 401(k) with employer match

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability Insurance

• Paid Time Off 14 Paid Holidays

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

Peter-Lacke USA is the U.S. subsidiary of Peter-Lacke GmbH, a global leader in advanced paint systems for automotive, appliance, and electronics sectors for over 117 years. Headquartered in Germany, we are known for innovation, precision, and long-term partnerships. Learn more at www.peter-lacke.com

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.