Sr. Associate, Materials Science

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

The Science & Applied Technology (S&AT) team has an opportunity for an experienced materials scientist professional that will report to a Manager, Research & Development.  The S&AT group focuses on maximizing the performance and quality of our products through practical application of science, and a commitment to technical rigor.

As a Senior Associate you will develop fundamental understanding on the polymer material 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.

As part of this business unit, you may be aligned to 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. You will also be challenged to exercise your learning agility to expand your technical capabilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and Validate novel and unique methods of qualitative and quantitative material testing measuring various performance attributes and degradation rates.

• Analyze and Optimize scientific experimentation practices and creative problem-solving techniques to support the testing and development of consumer products through analysis and interpretation of data.

• Communicate and Inspire through technical conclusions and recommendations to influence development teams and management.

• Collaborate and Accelerate with multifunctional core 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.

• Comply with general lab safety guidelines and maintain a clean, orderly work area.

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, OR Master’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 eligible to work in the United States.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCES AND SKILLS

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

• In-depth understanding and expertise in polymer structure-property relationship, degradation mechanisms, compostability, polymer chemistry, and analytical techniques.

• Understanding of green chemistry, biochemistry, and engineering principles is beneficial.

• Familiarity with OECD and ASTM test standards and guidelines.

• Strong track record of scientific curiosity and creative problem solving against ambiguous problems.

• Experience in using AI technologies and software.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to write reports and recommendations based on experimental results and deliver formal presentations to both technical and non-technical audiences at all levels.

• Consistent drive for skill development and personal growth, especially in broadening scientific areas of expertise.

• Proactive in taking action to meet challenging goals and business issues. Display of good judgement and timely decisions that keep projects and business initiatives moving forward.

• Ability to relate well and openly to build productive relationships with a wide variety of people regardless of background and position, including senior management.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

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

• Full time position, Mon – F