Technical Associate R&D Job Listing at Kraton Corporation in Savannah, GA (Job ID D6F9FE3A-B16D-4)

Description

Make a +Difference at Kraton!

At Kraton, we make a Positive Difference, and we are looking for individuals who are also looking to make a difference in their jobs, for our customers and to the world.  We are looking to hire a key member of our Research & Development (R&D) team at our laboratory in Savannah, GA. 

The Technical Associate is a key member of the Research and Development (R&D) Application Team and plays an integral role in the relationship with our internal and external customers, including involvement with onsite customer visits and product trials.

The Technical Associate at Kraton develops road marking formulations for thermoplastic road marking customers; assists with product scale-up, optimizing processing and performance testing; conduct mechanical/physical testing of road marking systems; contributes as a team member in developing strategies for the evolution and launch of new binder components; carry out fundamental tests as part of a scientific team which assist in the advancement and development of new materials, as well as the data necessary to support the business. 

The key responsibilities of this role include but are not limited to the following:

• Contribute to value creation in the work environment through understanding of thermoplastic road markings and general pine technology applications. 
• Formulate and complete test method developments using relevant scientific theories under minimum supervision.
• Evaluates properties of road marking binder resins and as well as new polymers utilizing industry established methods (ASTM, AASHTO, etc…) as well as custom test protocols.  
• Formulate and complete small technical service projects, provide technical advice, and communicate regularly to internal and external customers.
• Organize technical data in support of own and other's work.
• Regular input on results by comparing outcomes of previous investigations, or results quoted in literature. 
• Participation in writing internal reports.
• Execution of experimental programs with responsibility for quality of data produced and meeting agreed deadline.
• Ability to provide information for developing experimental strategies, according to own insights and/or sources broadly suggested by supervisor or colleagues.
• Ability to modify lab installations, experimental set-ups or equipment based on experimental results.
• Routinely purchase standard materials, chemicals, and equipment (purchase order input).
• Following and ensuring strict safety and regulatory procedures and safety checks.
• And other duties as assigned to safely perform.

• Strong intuitive problem solving skills, a curious spirit, and the desire to develop, organize and grow our technical database and team
• Knowledge and technical understanding in at least two of the following areas – organic chemistry; analytical chemistry; formulation chemistry; process technology; etc.
• Experience in road marking formulation development and testing is a bonus.
• Experience in other application area's like coatings, agriculture, adhesives, biofuels is appreciated
• Ability to conduct routine presentations and adequately answer ad hoc questions for internal and external customers
• Willingness to attend internal and external customer visits and trials.
• Ability to formulate the experimental program in detail; discuss solutions, troubleshoot and modify as needed in conjunction with direct supervisor
• Advanced knowledge with relevant health and safety policies with regard to experiments and chemical use (HAZCOM).

• HS Diploma + 8 years relevant experience OR
• Associate Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering/MLO/MBO Vocational Background + 7 years relevant experience OR
• Bachelor of Science: Biology, Chemistry, Engineering + 6 years relevant experience OR
• Entry level Master of Science

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification.  Statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required for this position.

Kraton's internal talent acquisition team manages our recruiting efforts and from time to time works with pre-selected/pre-approved external staffing agencies. We do NOT accept unsolicited resumes or candidate referrals from recruiters and/or agencies who are not pre-selected/pre-approved.

Kraton is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.