R&D Scientist

Role details

Description Seeking a hands-on R&D Scientist to lead the development and commercialization of polyurethane-based foams, gels, and adhesive systems across our Electronic Coatings and Infrastructure segments. This is a formulation-to-commercialization role with clear ownership of product development programs—from concept through scale-up and launch. You will operate as a technical lead (IC), supported by technicians, working cross-functionally with commercial, operations, and quality teams to translate customer needs into scalable products.

Product Development & Commercialization

Own development of polyurethane-based formulations (foams, gels, adhesives) from concept through commercialization

Translate customer and market requirements into differentiated product platforms

Lead formulation design, optimization, and validation using structured methodologies (DoE, statistical tools)

Partner with commercial teams and customers to support product adoption, trials, and technical positioning

Manufacturing & Scale-Up

Lead scale-up activities and provide hands-on troubleshooting across manufacturing sites

Ensure robust transfer from lab to production, including process parameters and quality controls

Support product lifecycle management, including continuous improvement and cost optimization

Technical Problem Solving & Analysis

Conduct failure analysis and root cause investigations using analytical techniques (FTIR, GC/MS, thermal, rheology, mechanical testing)

Develop structure-property-performance relationships to guide formulation strategy

Generate clear, data-driven recommendations to inform technical and business decisions

Cross-Functional Leadership

Interface with R&D, Operations, Quality, and Commercial teams globally

Track and communicate project progress, risks, and KPIs to leadership

Contribute to broader technology strategy and product roadmap development

Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor on Chemistry or Masters

5–10 years of experience in polyurethane formulation and product development, with strong hands-on lab capability

Demonstrated experience taking products from development through commercialization and scale-up

Strong foundation in structure–property relationships, materials characterization, and failure analysis

Experience with analytical techniques (FTIR, GC/MS, thermal analysis, rheology, mechanical testing)

Proficiency with statistical tools and DoE (e.g., Minitab)

Experience working in stage-gate or structured NPD environments

Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Westwood, MA.

Pay And Benefits The pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $130000.00/yr.

Health Vision Dental 401K

Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Westwood,MA.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 27, 2026.

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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.