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Research Development Chemist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Intertape Polymer Group, Inc.

R&D Co-Op

Marysville, MI · On-site

R&D investigates new technologies, product designs, develops new products, improves existing ... Past students have majored in a wide range of fields including chemistry, math, business, medical ...

Intertape Polymer Group (IPG)

R&D Co-Op

Marysville, MI · On-site

R&D investigates new technologies, product designs, develops new products, improves existing ... Past students have majored in a wide range of fields including chemistry, math, business, medical ...

Intertape Polymer Group (IPG)

R&D Co-Op

Marysville, MI · On-site

R&D investigates new technologies, product designs, develops new products, improves existing ... Past students have majored in a wide range of fields including chemistry, math, business, medical ...

PPG

Lead Development Chemist

Adrian, MI

Lead Development Chemist responsible for managing special adhesives and sealants projects at the ... Demonstrated hands-on research and leadership skills * Experience with root cause analysis ...

Henkel

Product Development Chemist

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$70K - $87K/yr

What you'll do * Lead new product development projects for adhesive and sealant technologies ... Insights of product offerings, industry trends and ongoing research in the Adhesives & Sealants ...

Freudenberg

Chemist - Applied Research

Howell, MI · On-site

Design, execute, and optimize laboratory research related to organic synthesis, polymer development ... Master's or PhD in chemistry preferred. * Advanced knowledge of organic chemistry and chemical ...

New

Freudenberg Group

Chemist I

Howell, MI · On-site

Recommend R&D programs (internal or external), investigate, develop, and implement new technologies ... Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field. * 1-5 years working in Chemistry or a ...

Actalent

Chemist

Livonia, MI · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

... research facilities and educational institutions. The laboratory culture reflects a smaller-company ... development, and performance-based rewards. Safety, adherence to industry standards, and proper ...

Bruker

Automation Chemist

Detroit, MI · On-site

$125K/yr

... future developments such as novel drugs, energy materials, catalysts, nanomaterials in a wide range of chemical research areas and quality control. The position as Automation Chemist is an ...

Dupont

Analytical Chemist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Develop, optimize, validate, and troubleshoot analytical methods to support R&D, manufacturing ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or related field * 2+ ...

Freudenberg

Chemist I

Howell, MI · On-site

Recommend R&D programs (internal or external), investigate, develop, and implementnew technologies ... Minimum of aBachelor's degree in Chemistryor related field. * 1-5 years working in Chemistry or a ...

Actalent

Analytical Chemist

Livonia, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The organization promotes ongoing education and training, encourages collaboration with research ... and long-term development are highly valued. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire ...

Actalent

Formulation Chemist

Livonia, MI · On-site

$33.65 - $38.46/hr

The chemist will work closely with R&D, manufacturing, procurement, and technical service teams to maintain product robustness and accelerate development timelines. Responsibilities * Modify existing ...

Actalent

Analytical Chemist

Livonia, MI · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

... research facilities and educational institutions. The laboratory culture reflects a smaller-company ... development, and performance-based rewards. Safety, adherence to industry standards, and proper ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch Development Chemist JobsResearch Development Chemist Jobs in Michigan

Research Development Chemist information

See Michigan salary details

$34.4K

$74.4K

$135.5K

How much do research development chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development chemist in Michigan is $74,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $95,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Research Development Chemist do?

A Research Development Chemist is responsible for developing and improving chemical products and processes. They design experiments, analyze results, and collaborate with other scientists to create new materials or enhance existing ones. Their work often involves problem-solving, innovation, and ensuring that products meet safety and regulatory standards. Research Development Chemists can work in various industries including pharmaceuticals, materials science, and consumer goods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Development Chemist?

To thrive as a Research Development Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, analytical techniques, and laboratory research, usually supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in chemistry or a related field. Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (like HPLC, GC, and spectroscopy), chemical analysis software, and adherence to regulatory standards such as GLP or GMP is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration and communication skills help set top performers apart. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, innovative product development, and compliance with safety and quality standards in a competitive research environment.

How does a Research Development Chemist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product development process?

A Research Development Chemist frequently works alongside colleagues from engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and marketing to bring new chemical products from concept to market. This collaboration often involves regular meetings to discuss progress, resolve technical challenges, and ensure that formulations meet both regulatory and performance requirements. Chemists may provide technical insights, interpret test results, and adjust formulations based on feedback from these teams, making strong communication skills and adaptability essential. Such cross-functional teamwork not only accelerates innovation but also helps ensure products align with customer needs and company goals.

What is the difference between Research Development Chemist vs Quality Control Chemist?

AspectResearch Development ChemistQuality Control Chemist
Primary FocusDeveloping new products and formulationsEnsuring products meet quality standards
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departmentsManufacturing, quality labs
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry or related fieldBachelor’s in Chemistry or related field
Industry UsagePharmaceutical, chemical, consumer goodsPharmaceutical, chemical, manufacturing

Research Development Chemists focus on creating and improving products through experimentation, while Quality Control Chemists ensure products meet safety and quality standards. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are essential in the product lifecycle, but they serve different functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Research Development Chemist jobs in Michigan?

For Research Development Chemist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Development Chemist jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Development Chemist jobs in Michigan are:

Research Development Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Development Chemist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,372 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Senior R&D Chemist

Walled Lake, MI • On-site

Contract Professionals, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Contract Professionals, Inc.external

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Senior R&D Chemist

📍 Walled Lake, MI

💼 Direct Hire | Full-Time | On-Site

💲 $80,000–$100,000 (Based on Experience)


Are you an experienced R&D Chemist with a passion for developing innovative coating formulations? Our client is looking for a hands-on chemist to lead product development, improve existing formulations, and support new product launches in a growing manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do

  • Develop and optimize solvent and water-based coating formulations.
  • Create new products and improve existing formulations for performance, quality, and cost.
  • Scale products from the lab to manufacturing while supporting production trials.
  • Evaluate raw materials including polymers, additives, solvents, and resins.
  • Conduct product testing, analyze results, and provide technical recommendations.
  • Support continuous improvement, troubleshooting, and cross-functional projects.


What We're Looking For

✔ Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

✔ 15+ years of R&D formulation experience

✔ Strong background in coatings formulation

✔ Experience with 1K and 2K coating formulations

✔ Experience with FTIR and laboratory testing

✔ Knowledge of QMS, DOE, and SPC methodologies

⭐ Preferred

  • Polymer chemistry experience
  • Experience scaling formulations from lab to production


If you're looking to join a company where you'll have a direct impact on product innovation and development, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply