Sr. Associate, Materials Scientist and Formulation

SC JOHNSON IS A FIFTH-GENERATION FAMILY COMPANY BUILT ON THE SPIRIT OF OUR PEOPLE. We have been leading with purpose for over 130 years, building iconic brands that win the hearts and minds of consumers – such as Raid®, Glade®, Ziploc® and more, in virtually every country around the world. Together, we are creating a better future – for the planet, for future generations and for every SCJ team member. Join our winning team of Wave Makers and Go Getters and help us write the next chapter in the SCJ story.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Are you a scientist who is willing to challenge convention? Experiment fearlessly? And make an impact by turning ambiguity into innovative, breakthrough solutions?

SC Johnson is looking for an individual to bring their passion and interest for materials science and biodegradable formulation to our Science and Applied Technology (S&AT) team. The S&AT group focuses on maximizing the performance and quality of our products through practical application of science and their commitment to technical rigor. This position will report to a Manager of Research and Development.

As Senior Associate, you will develop a fundamental understanding of polymer materials including their characterization and degradation to deliver new sustainable packaging options for our products. You will support new product development, testing and troubleshooting efforts across multiple business divisions. Additionally, you will be accountable for developing and executing novel methods to test, analyze, and improve the properties and performance of various consumer products. Your insights will help shape product/technology strategy, with direct exposure to cross-category innovation teams.

As part of this team, you may work on a variety of initiatives and work activities gaining broad exposure to SC Johnson’s products and categories.  To be successful in this role, you will leverage a strong sense of scientific curiosity and creativity and be comfortable working with ambiguity. You will also be challenged to proactively pursue skill development and learning opportunities that broaden your technical capabilities and scientific areas of expertise.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and validate novel qualitative and quantitative material test methods measuring various performance attributes and degradation rates.

• Analyze and optimize scientific experimentation practices and creative problem-solving techniques.

• Communicate and inspire with research conclusions and technical storytelling to influence development teams and management.

• Collaborate and accelerate with multifunctional teams to swiftly identify, develop, and launch sustainable products.

• Document and support concise and accurate records of laboratory experiments and other documentation to ensure legal and regulatory compliance, standards and best practices.

• Write reports and recommendations based on experimental results and deliver formal presentations to both technical and non-technical audiences at all levels.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE YOU’LL BRING

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Applied Polymer Science, Chemistry or related field and 4+ years of relevant Research and Development (R&D) experience, ORMaster’s degree in Materials Science, Applied Polymer Science, Chemistry or related field and 2+ years of relevant Research and Development (R&D) experience.

• Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship for full-time employment.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCES AND SKILLS

• PhD or MSc in Materials Science, Applied Polymer Science, or Chemistry

• Experience in polymer structure-property relationship, sustainability, degradation mechanisms, compostability, polymer chemistry, analytical techniques

• Understanding of green chemistry, biochemistry, and engineering principles

• Familiar with OECD and ASTM test standards and guidelines

• Experience in using AI technologies and software

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to proactively and collaboratively drive projects/initiatives and decision making to achieve business objectives

• Ability to develop and foster strong business partnerships across functions and organizational levels

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• This position is located at our Howe Street global headquarters office in Racine

• Full time position, Mon – Fri business hours

• Remote work available once a week for eligible employees

• Lab and office work environments

• Must be flexible for calls/meetings across global time zones

• 10 - 15% travel 

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds

• This role is eligible for domestic relocation

Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned

at any time with or without notice as assigned by the Manager. The job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the position remains at-will.

BENEFITS AND PERKS

SC Johnson’s total compensation packages are at or above industry levels. In addition to salary, total packages may include bonuses, long-term incentives, matching 401(k) contributions and profit sharing based on company profitability, job level and years of service. As a family company, we’re committed to providing benefits such as subsidized health care plans, maternity/paternity/adoption leave, flexible work arrangements, vacation purchase options, recreation and fitness centers, childcare, counseling services and more.

Inclusion & Diversity

We’re a global business, with people from every culture, ethnicity, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and ability. We recognize the breadth of human experience, and we work to celebrate it. It is our goal to build a diverse, inclusive and supportive work environment where all people can thrive.

We’re committed to ongoing efforts that help us attract, hire, and retain diverse talent who want to build a positive, inclusive environment. Read more about our ongoing initiatives at https://jobs.scjohnson.com/inclusion.

Better Together

At SC Johnson, we strive to create a positive, inclusive and unique workplace. We strongly believe SCJ people are able to achieve their best when they can collaborate and work together in person.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The policy of the Company is to ensure equal opportunity for all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, gender identity, gender expression, disability, citizenship, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in any active or reserve component of the U.S. or state military forces, genetic history or information or any other category protected by law.

Accommodation Requests

If you are an individual with a disability and you need an accommodation or other assistance during the application process, please call our Human Resources department at 262-260-3343 or email your request to SCJHR@scj.com. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. Download the EEO is the Law poster for more information.