Formulation Coatings Chemist information
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$45.3K - $55.5K
20% of jobs
$57K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$55.5K - $65.8K
10% of jobs
$65.8K - $76.1K
8% of jobs
The median wage is $85.8K / yr.
$76.1K - $86.4K
10% of jobs
$86.4K - $96.6K
14% of jobs
$96.6K - $106.9K
8% of jobs
$108.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$106.9K - $117.2K
23% of jobs
$117.2K - $127.5K
2% of jobs
$127.5K - $137.7K
0% of jobs
$137.7K - $148K
3% of jobs
How much do formulation coatings chemist jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for formulation coatings chemist in the United States is $87,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A Formulation Coatings Chemist is responsible for developing and testing coatings such as paints, varnishes, and finishes for various surfaces and industries. They work to create formulas that provide specific properties, such as durability, color, adhesion, and resistance to environmental factors. Their tasks often involve researching raw materials, conducting experiments, and ensuring products meet industry standards and client requirements. They also troubleshoot production issues and help scale up formulations for manufacturing.
To thrive as a Formulation Coatings Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or chemical engineering, with experience in polymer science and coatings formulation, typically backed by a relevant science degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, analytical techniques (such as spectroscopy and rheology), and safety protocols is crucial, and certifications like OSHA laboratory safety can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in developing innovative and reliable coating solutions. These competencies are essential to ensure product quality, meet regulatory standards, and drive successful product development in a competitive industry.
Formulation Coatings Chemists often encounter challenges such as balancing product performance with regulatory compliance and cost constraints. They must ensure that new formulations meet durability, application, and environmental requirements while sourcing raw materials that are both effective and consistent. Additionally, troubleshooting stability issues and scaling up formulations from the lab to manufacturing can present unique technical hurdles. Collaboration with quality control, production, and regulatory teams is essential to successfully bring new coatings to market.
What are popular job titles related to Formulation Coatings Chemist jobs?
For Formulation Coatings Chemist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
