Sr. Research Scientist

We are seeking a Sr. Research Scientist to lead a small project team focused on resolving technical challenges in thermoplastics. The role involves working with commercial polymers to create specialized properties out of films and leading projects for the development of targeted layered polymeric materials. The successful candidate will demonstrate an understanding of polymer structure-property relationships to create a development roadmap for evaluating new technologies and materials. This role requires collaboration with multi-disciplinary project teams, delivering results aligned with team objectives, and developing technical solutions through hands-on experimentation and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small project team to resolve technical challenges involving thermoplastics.
• Create specialized properties in film using commercial polymers.
• Lead projects for developing targeted layered polymeric materials.
• Understand polymer structure-property relationships for creating development roadmaps.
• Collaborate on multi-disciplinary project teams, providing technical input and delivering results.
• Develop and implement technical solutions through hands-on experimentation and problem-solving.
• Partner with other groups, business partners, and customers to scale up new technology.
• Apply the Scientific Method in experimental planning, execution, and problem-solving.
• Utilize statistical tools to solve complex problems.
• Understand and adhere to EH&S standards, policies, and procedures for extrusion line operation.
• Promote safe work habits and lead by example in safety behaviors.

• 5+ years of experience in polymeric material science, preferably in extruded film or multi-layered products.
• Ability to partner successfully with team members and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
• Fundamental knowledge of polymer material science, structure-property relationships, polymer rheology, film extrusion, and film mechanical and transport properties.
• Proven track record of delivering quality technical solutions.
• Ability to work independently and drive projects to completion.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Passion and knowledge about polymer material science and thin film applications.

• Experience in polymer (multi-layered) product development.
• Materials testing and characterization experience.
• Experience in new product scale-up and commercialization.
• Design of Experiments knowledge.
• Project management experience directing small teams (1-2 Scientists or technicians).
• Bachelors degree with 8+ years of experience or advanced degree (Masters or PhD preferred) in Materials Science, Plastic Science, Mechanical Science, or Chemical Science.

The work environment includes time spent in the lab, office, and collaboration with other departments and team members. The focus is on developing innovative, disruptive solutions for the Capacitor Film market. The Sr. Research Scientist role is located in Valley View, Ohio, and involves ideation, formulation, and oversight of polymer product development programs. The scientist will work closely with Manufacturing, Science, and Sales teams to ensure differentiated products are developed and matured for market introduction. Additional responsibilities include selecting polymeric materials for multi-layered films, developing materials characterization techniques, overseeing film sample creation, evaluating new capital opportunities, interacting with external customers, and managing project oversight. The position offers the possibility of working one day remotely if desired and projects allow.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $57.00 - $77.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cleveland,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 4, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email ... for other accommodation options.