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Polyurethane Formulations Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA

$69K/yr

This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab ... In this position, you will become familiar with the process, machinery, chemistry, and supervision ...

Carpenter Co.

Pour Line Engineer

Fogelsville, PA · On-site

This incumbent will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab stock production. In this ... Develops understanding of pouring line technology (example: machinery, PLC and formulations)

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab ... In this position, you will become familiar with the process, machinery, chemistry, and supervision ...

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Polyurethane Formulations Chemist information

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$35K

$87.7K

$148K

How much do polyurethane formulations chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for polyurethane formulations 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.

What does a polyurethane formulations chemist do?

A Polyurethane Formulations Chemist specializes in developing, testing, and optimizing polyurethane materials for various applications, such as foams, coatings, adhesives, and elastomers. They select raw materials, design chemical formulations, and analyze the physical and chemical properties of the resulting products. Their work ensures that the polyurethane meets specific performance, safety, and regulatory standards required by industries such as automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polyurethane formulations chemist?

To thrive as a Polyurethane Formulations Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or chemical engineering, ideally with a bachelor's or advanced degree and experience in polymer science. Proficiency in laboratory techniques, analytical instrumentation (such as FTIR, DSC, and GPC), and familiarity with industry regulations like REACH or ISO standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing innovative, high-quality formulations that meet performance, safety, and compliance requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a polyurethane formulations chemist when developing new products?

A Polyurethane Formulations Chemist often encounters challenges related to balancing performance requirements with cost and regulatory constraints. Developing new formulations may require extensive testing to achieve desired physical properties such as flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. Additionally, sourcing raw materials that meet both quality and sustainability goals can be complex. Collaboration with production, quality assurance, and regulatory teams is crucial to address these challenges effectively and bring new products to market.

What is the difference between Polyurethane Formulations Chemist vs Polymer Chemist?

AspectPolyurethane Formulations ChemistPolymer Chemist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D centersResearch labs, industrial settings, academia
Industry UsageSpecializes in polyurethane products like foams, coatings, adhesivesWorks on a broad range of polymers including plastics, fibers, elastomers

Polyurethane Formulations Chemists focus specifically on developing and optimizing polyurethane-based products, while Polymer Chemists work on a wider variety of polymers. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often operate in similar environments, but their areas of expertise differ in scope and application.

What are popular job titles related to Polyurethane Formulations Chemist jobs?

For Polyurethane Formulations Chemist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polyurethane Formulations Chemist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,733 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Principal R&D Engineer - Color Chemistry

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Xpel
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Xpelexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Principal Research and Development Engineer will lead and oversee their respective area(s) of development of XPEL's core technology.

Core Duties

  • Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs
  • Design and develop stable pigment and dye formulations tailored for TPU substrates and high-performance topcoats.
  • Evaluate pigment chemistries for transparency, UV resistance, weathering stability, and compatibility with film matrices.
  • Build and optimize pigment and dye dispersion methodologies that deliver high optical clarity, minimal haze, and consistent batch-to-batch performance.
  • Apply advanced surfactants, dispersants, and milling technologies to achieve submicron uniformity in pigment particles.
  • Establish spectrophotometric methods and digital libraries for accurate, reproducible color measurement and prediction.
  • Develop predictive algorithms or models to streamline customer-specific color requests and reduce formulation cycles.
  • Design pigment masterbatches and concentrate systems suitable for pilot-scale and production-scale extrusion or coating processes.
  • Collaborate with process engineers and manufacturing partners to ensure seamless technology transfer and industrial implementation.
  • Lead the identification and filing of patents in color-stable transparent and semi-transparent films.
  • Stay current with emerging pigment, dye, and coating technologies to continuously advance company capabilities.
  • Provide robust technical solutions to new product development initiatives and lend support to sales and product management teams
  • Bridge the gap from bench scale testing to industrial manufacturing processes by taking a lead role in the scale up process
  • Develop plans and procedures for specifications & fabrication of components, integration of technologies, balancing cost & manufacturability
  • Serve as technical interface to vendors and manufacturers
  • Continue to improve upon existing process and product through research and development in the specific area of responsibility
  • Remain versed and up to date on polymer chemistry, extrusion and other emerging technologies in the film industry
  • Develop and execute testing methodology necessary to ensure products meet industry standards
  • Develop a roadmap for next gen product innovations and lead platform level programs
  • Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications

  • B.S in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ industrial experience
  • Strong background in pigment chemistry, dispersion science, and optical property measurement with deep knowledge of pigment/dye chemistry, stabilization mechanisms, and degradation pathways.
  • Proficiency in dispersion technologies (high shear mixing, bead milling, ultrasonics, etc.).
  • Demonstrated experience in polyurethane systems, TPU, or optical coatings strongly preferred.
  • Hands-on expertise with spectrophotometry, colorimetry, haze measurement, and gloss testing.
  • Experience in formulation-to-scale-up translation for pigment masterbatches or coatings.
  • Familiarity with UV stabilizers, antioxidants, and optical brighteners for polymer systems.
  • Technical expertise in thermal, mechanical, and optical properties for polymer multilayer films using advanced analytical tools like DMA/DHR, DSC, FTIR, TGA, GPC/MS, profilometer, etc.
  • Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams to drive programs from concept to production/commercialization
  • Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making ability
  • Strong understanding of design of experiments and corresponding data analysis
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
  • Proven record of innovation, IP contribution, and technical leadership
  • In-office role

Desired Qualifications

  • Advanced Degree preferred

XPEL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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About XPEL

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Motor vehicle parts manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Social media

Twitter

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