Polymer Director Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

With more than 100 years of experience, Sika is a worldwide innovation and sustainability leader in the development and production of systems and products for commercial and residential construction, as well as the transportation, marine, automotive, and renewable energy manufacturing industries.

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world, produces in over 400 factories, and develops innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and transportation industries toward greater environmental compatibility. Approximately 33,000 employees generated CHF 11.20 billion in sales in 2025. 

We are looking for a scientist with capabilities in synthetic organic and polymer organic chemistry to conduct research and development on polymer (in)organic systems, including coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers with special interest in polyurethane and silicone systems. The successful candidate will have opportunities to demonstrate leadership while providing support to polymer development and manufacturing and performing independent projects.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Plan and carry out research projects, such as development of new products and testing methods.
   
• Direct technicians and other staff in the chemical processing and testing including analyzing raw materials and processing conditions.
   
• Conduct and lead basic and applied research including polymeric materials with various application and end-use applications.
   
• Utilizing the scientific method, design experiments to determine the structure-property relationship to achieve pre-determined targets.
   
• Identify key technical issues and produce cutting edge breakthroughs.
   
• Build relationships with internal and external partners to better understand market trends for future project development.
   
• Work closely with process and production engineers to scale-up new products at global production sites.
   
• Conduct IP strategy development and prior art analysis, write disclosures and patent applications including the data generated from your experiments.
   
• Deliver effective presentations, reports, and publications to internal and external interested parties.
   
• Maintain a safe working environment including but not limited to utilizing the proper PPE for the designated task and safe chemical storage and handling. Ensure compliance with company procedural guidelines, laboratory procedures, and safety programs.
   
• Assist with the development and/or review of SOPs and continuous process improvement initiatives.
   
• Collaborate with domestic and global colleagues in an inclusive environment.

Qualifications/Experience/Education:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Science, or similar discipline is required, Ph.D. preferred.

Experience / Competencies:

• 5+ Years experience in an R&D environment
• Strong background in polymer synthesis and characterization
• Structure-property understanding of diverse application areas
• Excellent written, verbal, and communication skills
• Ability to work in highly collaborative, fast paced, cross-functional environment involving global customers, labs, and manufacturing sites
• Well-developed time management skills with the ability to work on and lead multiple projects simultaneously
• Creativity, ingenuity, curiosity, and initiative
• Willing to learn from other scientists and senior technicians on product processing and testing.

Perks & Benefits

• 401k with Generous Company Match
• Bonuses
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid time off, paid holidays
• Floating holidays + Paid Volunteer Time
• Wellness/Fitness Reimbursements
• Education Assistance
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employee Referral Program & More!

Sika fosters a culture of entrepreneurship, empowering each individual to make decisions, learn from experiences, and shape their own career path. The safety and well-being of employees are top priorities at Sika, with a strong commitment to open communication and maintaining a safe workplace. In addition, Sika actively contributes to the community and promotes sustainability by giving back, minimizing environmental impact, and embracing social responsibility. 

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. 

Sika Corporation is committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals that apply. As an equal opportunity employer Sika will consider all qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, or other protected characteristics.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.