Formulation Chemist

Formulation Chemist

Manufacturing

Minneapolis, Minnesota, US

Pay Rate Low: 70000 | Pay Rate High: 80000

Formulation Chemist – Water-Based Coatings

Monday–Friday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM | $70,000–$80,000 annually

We are seeking an experienced Formulation Chemist with a background in water-based architectural coatings or an adjacent field. In this role, you will develop and optimize high-performance paints and coatings, working closely with R&D, production, and quality control teams to bring products from concept through to commercialization. Experience in architectural coatings, stains, or wood finishes is a strong advantage.

• Develop and formulate water-based architectural coatings with a focus on performance, durability, and environmental compliance.
• Optimize existing formulations to improve quality, cost-efficiency, and manufacturability.
• Evaluate raw materials; including resins, pigments, additives, and binders.
• Conduct lab experiments and application testing to ensure products meet applicable industry standards (e.g., ASTM) and environmental regulations.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and provide technical solutions during scale-up and production phases.
• Collaborate with production teams to ensure smooth transitions from lab formulations to full-scale manufacturing.
• Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes related to coatings and environmental safety.
• Maintain thorough documentation of formulations, processes, and test results.
• Support quality assurance by developing testing protocols and addressing product performance inquiries.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related field.
• 3–5 years of experience formulating water-based architectural coatings or products in a closely related industry (paint, inks, or cosmetics).
• Solid understanding of coating technologies, resin chemistry, pigment dispersions, and relevant environmental regulations.
• Familiarity with standard testing methods such as viscosity, adhesion, scrub resistance, gloss, and durability testing.
• Proficiency with laboratory equipment including viscometers and other analytical instruments.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex formulation issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate a forklift and perform physical tasks as needed.

We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.