Senior Applications Chemist – Cleaning Systems & Coatings

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Applications Chemist to join our R&D team. This role will lead the development, testing, and optimization of detergent and wash additive formulations tailored to our appliances. The role will also support the development and evaluation of appearance finishes and coatings in our products. The ideal candidate has a strong background in surfactant chemistry, material compatibility, and consumer product performance, with a passion for innovation and learning.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Lead the evaluation and guide establishment of residential automatic dishwasher and laundry detergents and formulas, as well as other consumable wash additives including machine cleaners, fabric softeners, and rinse agents
• Collaborate with detergent and ingredient manufacturers to achieve best-in-class cost/performance balance across formulations and form factors
• Drive the navigation of competitive, performance, intellectual property, and claims landscapes to inform product positioning and differentiation
• Develop and conduct laboratory and appliance-based performance testing to validate cleaning efficacy, residue control, dish care, fabric care, user safety, and machine wetted part care (compatibility and durability)
• Partner with engineering teams to ensure detergent and additive design aligns with appliance features, wash cycles, and long-term reliability
• Support regulatory and environmental compliance, including safety certifications and sustainability-driven initiatives (e.g., eco-labels, biodegradable claims)
• Provide technical expertise to support troubleshooting of field issues and address customer feedback related to detergent and additive performance
• Assist business product lines as coatings consultants including but not limited to powder, pre paint, wet pain, PVD, electroplating and graphics
• Collaborate on all appliance coatings specifications and methods for appliance technology
• Technical resource for coatings process and supplier root cause resolution

Required:

• Master’s in chemistry; Bachelor’s degree in chemistry considered if significant related experience
• 5+ years of experience in detergent formulation and cleaning chemistry
• Strong knowledge of surfactants, builders, enzymes, polymers, and specialty additives used in detergents and wash additives
• Hands-on expertise with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC-MS, spectroscopy, titration, etc)
• Excellent problem-solving, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Demonstrated passion for teamwork. Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills

Preferred:

• PhD degree in chemistry
• Demonstrated experience in competitive benchmarking, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property considerations
• Demonstrated experience in consumer goods development