Research & Development Chemist

DescriptionAt Custom Laminating Corporation in Mt Bethel, PA, the R&D work you do has real-world stakes - from life-saving fire shelters to advanced building and automotive laminates. We're hiring a Research & Development Chemist. This is a hands-on, lab-forward role where your ideas matter from day one.We're a small, tight-knit R&D team embedded alongside our manufacturing operation. That means you'll see your formulations come to life, and collaborate directly with leadership - no red tape, no layers of bureaucracy, just good science, great colleagues, and work that matters.Is This You?You are not seeking a role defined by repetitive protocols or direction at every step. Instead, you bring strong technical expertise, a methodical approach, and the curiosity to ask "why" when a formulation does not perform as expected.You maintain a well-organized lab and notebook with detailed documentation. You stay informed by reviewing patents, and recognize when emerging chemistries can address longstanding challenges. You are equally comfortable working hands-on in a production environment as you are conducting precise measurements in the lab.What You'll DoThis is a hands-on, bench-forward position with real project ownership. On any given week you might be:Formulating and testing water-based adhesives and coatings for new multi-layer industrial laminatesMaintaining a thorough lab notebookRecommending materials (films, foils, fabrics, adhesives, reinforcements) to meet customer specs and cost targetsTroubleshooting process or product challenges alongside the team and external subject matter expertsReading the latest developments in polymer chemistry and bringing fresh ideas back to the benchContributing to a safe, clean, and organized lab environment What You Need to Succeed HereNon-negotiables:Hands-on formulation experience in adhesives, coatings, water-based polymers, or a closely adjacent industryA BS/MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field with 3-5 years of industry experience or a Ph. D in a relevant disciplineExcellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skillsStrong verbal and written communication skillsLab safety as a personal standard - not a policy you follow when someone's watchingThorough, consistent documentation habitsA team-first attitude Strongly preferred:Familiarity with polymer types: acrylics, urethanes, water-based systemsExperience with laminates, coatings, paints, or converting processesExposure to roll-to-roll manufacturing or converting environmentsKnowledge of flame retardants or silicone-based chemistriesFamiliarity with analytical tools: FTIR, DSC, DMA, AFMUnderstanding of markets we serve: automotive, building & construction, fire protection, and electronics This role is not for you if:Your experience is purely synthesis-based or academicYou prefer a large team with well-defined lanesYou're not genuinely curious about what's new in your field - continuous learning is a real expectation here, not a slogan About Custom Laminating CorporationCustom Laminating Corporation (CLC) is a privately owned company based in Mt. Bethel, Pennsylvania. We make adhesive-based multi-layer laminates for some of the most demanding applications in the world. Our customers include automotive manufacturers, building and construction companies, and industrial clients who require precision, performance, and consistency.We're not a big organization. We're a company where the owner is across the street, the president walks the floor every day, and you are two reporting levels from the top. Decisions happen fast. Ideas get heard. Impact is immediate.Our facility is clean and safe, that's not an accident; it's the culture.What We OfferCompany-paid medical, dental, and vision benefits - you keep more of your paycheckProfit sharing for every employee, on top of a competitive salary and 401(k)Flexible PTOA brand-new, beautifully maintained facility in the hills of Mt. Bethel, PAReal project ownership from day one on a team small enough that your work is always visibleRelocation assistance considered for the right candidateI'm Interested - How Do I Get Started?If you've already built your formulation career in an applied, hands-on environment - and you're looking for a role where precision, teamwork, and real-world impact all matter - we'd love to hear from you.Apply here: https://app.jobvite.com/j?cj=on63zfwP&s=myHRpartnerWe realize that it takes time and effort to go through our application process, and we thank you for considering Custom Laminating Corporation as a potential employer.