About Us
We are a small but rapidly growing aerospace manufacturing company specializing in precision-engineered components for commercial, defense, and space applications. Our team is driven by innovation, quality, and reliability.We are seeking a motivated R&D Material Scientist to develop and optimize chemical formulations, materials, and processes while driving product innovation from concept through commercialization.
Position Summary
The Research and Development (R&D) Material Scientist is responsible for developing and optimizing chemical formulations, materials, and processes to support new product development and innovation. This role involves conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring new technologies from concept to commercialization. This role is fully on site in our Meriden, CT office.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and conduct experiments to develop new chemical formulations, materials, or coatings
- Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and technical reports
- Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA, REACH)
- Stay current with scientific literature and industry trends to identify new opportunities for innovation
- Improve existing products to reduce cost, improve performance, and processability
- Test competitor/various products and record results
- Analyze and approve chemical offsets to existing products
- Research and development of alternative compounds
- Develop and validate test methods and procedures
- Source and qualify laboratory equipment to expand capabilities
- Prepare samples for customers
- Maintain formulations and specifications for current products
- Validate the batching of new or reformulated products
- Review blueprints and specifications to determine the appropriate material and testing needs
- Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within chemistry and manufacturing
- Collaborate with lab and engineering to troubleshoot issues and propose action plans
- Coordinate with the business development team to develop and quote new part opportunities
- All other duties as assigned by management
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s and/or higher degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
- 2-4 years of related experience
- Proficiency in analytical techniques
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with polymer, rubber, and/or related industry
- Experience in a small business or startup manufacturing environment.
- Knowledge of ITAR, AS9100, and quality management systems.
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., JobBOSS, Epicor, SAP Business One), AS 9100, aerospace, and/or manufacturing
- NCMA certification (CPCM, CFCM, or equivalent).
Key Competencies
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Excellent organization, multitasking, and time management abilities.
- Proven problem-solving, decision-making, and critical-thinking skills.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Detail-oriented professional who performs well under pressure and adapts quickly to change.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Sick Leave, accrued and used in accordance with Connecticut law.
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance / AD&D
- Voluntary benefits: Long-Term Disability, Vision, Dental, Critical Illness, and Accident Insurance
- Profit Sharing / 401(k)
Salary Range (based on experience and qualifications):
Pay: $95,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
