Chemist

Entry-Level Applied Materials Chemist, Troy Michigan
Department: Materials Engineering Chemistry; Monday to Friday 7am to 4pm
Job Summary:
This entry-level/early-career role in Applied Materials Chemistry leverages foundational knowledge of chemistry and related industrial processes to support customer, manufacturing, and quality requirements for Cummins products. This position supports the Materials Engineering Chemistry needs across various industry segments, focusing on the evaluation and characterization of non-metallic materials such as coatings, elastomers, plastics, adhesives, sealants, oils, greases, and friction materials for heavy-duty and military axle applications.
The role works closely with the Senior Coatings Specialist and Analytical Chemist, assisting with laboratory operations, materials testing, instrumentation maintenance, and reporting.
Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the operation, maintenance, and calibration of lab instruments and equipment related to coatings and non-metallic material testing.
  
• Support Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) evaluations and deliver timely and accurate testing results to internal stakeholders.
  
• Receive and document incoming material samples, including photographing, labeling, and logging in Windchill (Technical Request/Testing Request).
  
• Conduct materials testing specifications, standards, and customer requirements (ASTM, ISO, CDBS-specific standards).
  
• Perform corrosion testing, data collection, and result analysis.
  
• Carry out proper disposal of tested materials according to Windchill TR disposition procedures.
  
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of chemistry and coatings/corrosion laboratories. Follow and uphold all relevant safety procedures and lab protocols.
  
• Complete and stay current on required Coatings Training Matrix modules.

Technical Competencies & Skills:

• Problem Solving: Identify root causes and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions.
  
• Decision Making: Exercise sound judgment to support timely and effective decision-making.
  
• Communication: Clearly convey technical and non-technical information tailored to different audiences.
  
• Collaboration: Maintain strong working relationships with engineering, manufacturing, and support personnel; foster a collaborative team environment.
  
• Accountability: Deliver consistent results and demonstrate integrity and professionalism in all work.

Preferred (but not required) Experience:

• Hands-on experience with laboratory instruments such as:
  • Salt spray and cyclic corrosion chambers
    
  • TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis)
    
  • DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry)
    
  • DMA (Dynamic Mechanical Analysis)
    
  • ED-XRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence)
    
  • FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)
    
  • ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry)
    
  • KF Titrator, Viscometer, Instron mechanical tester
    
• Knowledge of paints, coatings, plating processes
  
• Understanding of non-metallic material properties (plastics, elastomers, adhesives, etc.) Familiarity with environmental and materials testing procedures
  
• Experience with audits (internal or external)

Work Environment:

• Laboratory-based role with a focus on materials testing and analysis.
  
• Requires wearing appropriate PPE and adhering to safety and cleanliness protocols.

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