R&D Chemist I

Role Overview

The R&D Chemist I role supports the evaluation, development, reformulation, quality improvement, upkeep, and advancement of products. The work involves planning experiments, carrying them out, and reviewing the results with accuracy and clarity. In this position, you will work under general supervision on chemical investigations involving organic and inorganic compounds, as well as related materials, for research, production, or operational needs.

The job also calls for steady written and verbal communication throughout projects so that product performance and quality remain consistent and well documented.

Key Responsibilities

• Help solve product and process issues while supporting product development and ongoing maintenance.
• Plan, run, and evaluate experiments using established methods and procedures.
• Prepare work materials by collecting ingredients, obtaining raw inputs, and setting them up for application steps.
• Keep a clear and traceable record of analyses so findings can be reviewed and understood by others.
• Build foundational knowledge of technical concepts, company practices, and industry trends.
• Develop problem-solving and decision-making capabilities through day-to-day work.
• Manage assigned work by organizing the planning, execution, review, and documentation of results.
• Understand the process used to generate results and conclusions.
• Work under supervision and follow direction from the team.
• Follow all safety and security standards consistently.
• Maintain a tidy laboratory in line with 5S and lab cleanliness expectations.

Role Challenges

• Handle technical issues of low to moderate complexity related to products or processes, using knowledge of chemicals, raw materials, substrates, and instruments.
• Provide accurate progress updates across multiple moderately complex projects in a timely manner.
• Deliver work of consistently high quality and keep improving performance across tasks.

Decision-Making Scope

• Offer technical input and recommendations to R&D leaders and teammates.
• Propose solutions to problems and suggest improvements in paint development and validation or investigation methods.
• Use technical understanding to influence the group leader and peers to support ideas or plans.

Qualifications and Experience

A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Science is required. Knowledge of paint formulation, raw material evaluation, and colour work is preferred.

The ideal candidate should have 1 to 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting. A background of 3 to 5 years in coatings formulation is preferred. The role also requires familiarity with instrument capabilities and limitations, exposure to different technologies and materials, and a broad understanding of the paint industry, including raw material markets, technology trends, brands, products, attributes, and competitors.

Technical Skills Needed

Strong basic math skills, including conversions, are important. You should also be able to carry out statistical analysis for method development, use Excel, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint efficiently, and bring strong problem-solving, technical creativity, and interpretation skills to the role.

About Sherwin-Williams

Sherwin-Williams works to inspire and improve the world by adding color and protection to what matters most. Its paints, coatings, and innovative solutions help make spaces brighter and stronger. The company emphasizes stability, growth, and opportunity, and supports employees through rewards, benefits, learning opportunities, skill development, inclusion, and community connection.

Work Authorization

Proof of the right to work is required. Any offer of employment is conditional on having permission to work in the country for this role.

Equal Opportunity and Hiring Safety

The employer gives equal consideration to all qualified applicants and does not discriminate on protected characteristics such as race, colour, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, pregnancy or maternity, marital or civil partner status, or any other legally protected status.

The recruiting team will not ask for payment, financial details, or sensitive personal information such as national identification numbers, date of birth, or bank account information during the hiring process.