Job Description

We are seeking an experienced RD scientist with strong polymer science fundamentals interested in advancing their career within Avient s Corporate Technology Group. The RD scientist is responsible for the research and development of sustainable polymer compounds and composites that create value for our customers. Successful candidates will be creative and impactful within a team environment. Essential Functions: Conduct work in a safe, respectful and ethical manner Lead the development of products and technologies within existing and new markets Drive innovation that enriches Avient s intellectual property portfolio Apply multiple theories in testing/approaches to the creation of materials Statistical experimental design, product testing and data analysis Identify raw material and other functional specifications to meet customer requirements Provide project management to product platform development Partner with manufacturing to establish quality and testing conditions for new materials Present technical work to customers and various levels of management Conduct and troubleshoot materials and testing Other duties as assigned QUALIFICATION: Education and Experience: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science, or Polymer Science/Engineering (or related field) 5+ years of industrial and/or academic experience in thermoplastic development and processing. Candidates holding a Master Degree with 8+ years of professional experience will be considered for this role Experience with formulating and processing of thermoplastics with a strong background in polymer structure property relationships and polymer blends Strong skills in the scientific method and use of design of experiments for data-driven research Working knowledge of analytical characterization techniques for rheological, mechanical and, thermal properties of polymers Working knowledge of polymer processes including compounding with twin screw extruders and injection molding. Experience with product approval processes and qualifications at automotive OEMs is desirable Additional Qualifications: Use of statistical software (StatEase, Minitab, SigmaPro or similar) for executing DOEs Strong competencies in using Microsoft Word for documentation and report writing Strong competencies in use of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Project Greenbelt (or higher) in Six Sigma DMAIC desirable Competencies: Excellent presentation and communication skills Excellent project management and organizational skills required to develop detailed project timelines with key milestones and deliverables The candidate must be collaborative and work effectively across cross-functional teams to drive projects from lab-to-commercial scale The ideal candidate is an independent thinker and self-motivated to address technical challenges Each position at Avient focuses on eight Core Competencies as a Leader of Self. Additionally, management positions focus on Leadership Competencies as a Leader of Others and/or a Leader of the Business. These competencies are designed to drive behavior that will ultimately help our associates excel at their current roles, while supporting individual and career development.

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