R&D Scientist – Wood Preservation & Performance Testing

About Us

Viance takes pride in being the leading innovator in North America in the wood protection industry, providing advanced, sustainable solutions that extend the life and performance of wood. Our cutting-edge preservative technologies support structural durability, environmental stewardship, and long-term value for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

Position Summary

We are looking for an innovative R&D Scientist to join our team, with a specific focus on wood preservation and performance testing.

The R&D Scientist will lead the innovation, design, development, testing, and enhancement of wood preservation products. This is a hybrid lab-and-field role, ideal for a hands-on scientist who is equally comfortable formulating new chemistries in the lab and analyzing product performance in the field.

If you have a passion for wood science and wood preservation technologies, this is an opportunity to lead cutting-edge research that drives innovation in the wood protection industry.

Key Responsibilities

As a key member of a multidisciplinary team, the responsibilities of the R&D Scientist include:

Laboratory Innovation & Product Development

• Design, formulate, and refine new chemical systems for wood preservation, coatings, and protective treatments
• Evaluate raw materials and active ingredients for performance, compatibility, and sustainability
• Conduct accelerated lab tests (e.g., decay, leaching, mold resistance) under controlled conditions
• Optimize existing formulations for improved efficacy, durability, and cost-efficiency
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition products from concept to commercialization

Field Testing & Performance Evaluation

• Plan and execute field test programs to evaluate product durability against real-world factors (decay, insects, weathering, mold)
• Interpret and apply industry standards (e.g., AWPA, ASTM, EN) in the design of field trials
• Prepare test sites, treat and install wood samples, and conduct regular site inspections
• Collect, document, and analyze field performance data over extended time periods
• Identify biotic and abiotic interactions that impact treatment performance (e.g., soil chemistry, UV exposure, fungal activity)

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze experimental and field data using statistical methods
• Interpret results to guide formulation decisions and product recommendations
• Write clear, detailed technical reports and present findings to internal stakeholders and industry partners
• Support patent, regulatory, and marketing efforts with technical insights and documentation

Education Requirements and Technical Skills

• Master’s degree or PhD in Wood Science, Forest Products, Wood Technology, or a closely related field (e.g., Chemistry or Materials Science with a wood-focused research background)
• Minimum 3 years of experience in wood preservation, wood treatment processes, or wood-based product development
• Hands-on experience in evaluating wood performance, including decay resistance, termite/mold protection, and weathering durability
• Hands-on experience in both laboratory and field-testing environments
• Working knowledge of relevant industry standards and testing protocols (e.g., AWPA, ASTM, EN standards for treated wood)
• Strong understanding of wood-chemical interactions and how preservatives behave in various wood species and environmental conditions
• A working knowledge of chemistry, physics, and biology related to wood, including wood anatomy, decay fungi, sterile culture techniques, and insect biology (e.g., termites and beetles), is desirable and necessary for the role.
• Proficient in collecting and interpreting performance data from both lab and field tests
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills for documenting and presenting findings
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments
• Advance knowledge of Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in wood protection R&D or biocides used in wood preservation
• Knowledge of green chemistry principles and sustainable wood treatment technologies
• Familiarity with industry-specific regulations and standards for wood treatment and environmental compliance
• Experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Minitab) for data analysis
• Previous participation in industry technical committees (e.g., AWPA, ASTM) or related forums
• Experience in patent filings and intellectual property related to wood preservation technologies