Axalta Coating Systems, LLC Hiring for Scientist – Electrocoat at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Full Time

Scientist – Electrocoat (Axalta Coating Systems, LLC / Philadelphia, PA) – Develop electrocoat formulations to meet targeted performance including application/appearance, film properties, and cost specifications. Utilize polymer synthesis and coatings knowledge to link desired product attributes to fundamental structure-property behavior in coatings; characterize paint systems through analytical techniques, tests per standard test methods (including ASTM & ISO); translate OEM test specifications for electrocoats into product specifications; develop and employ electrochemical techniques to evaluate electrocoat film performance; maintain a clear and up-to-date understanding of customer and market needs, technical literature, and competitive landscape; collaborate with a global, multifunctional team in the development, scale-up, and commercialization of novel electrocoat systems for key markets; participate in DFMEA & PFMEA (design failure mode and effects analysis and process failure mode and effects analysis) analyses; develop intellectual property protection for inventions; simulate and optimize electrocoat engineering and line processes in the lab and characterize current and voltage profile during deposition; devise new and creative approaches to solve problems and to advance product performance and technology; design experiments and use statistical analysis to build technical understanding of electrocoat technology; supervise technician(s), organize workflow, including setting and meeting key deadlines. Requires Bachelor’s in Coatings Technology, Polymer Science, Polymers and Coatings Technology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science and three years of experience in job offered or three years of experience as Assistant Manager, Graduate Engineer Trainee, Intern-Chemist, or similar positions in paints and coatings industries. Background in education, training, or experience must include demonstrated and proven direct industry experience in electrocoat application and technology for OEMs; working knowledge and hands-on experience in electrocoat deposition line in automotive paint shop floor; strong technical background in paint formulation (inclduing water-based and UV cure coatings), polymer synthesis, emulsion polymerization, dispersion processing and formulation, electrocoat coatings and substrate pretreatment processes used in OEMs; experience in application of statistical design methodologies such as Design of Experiment (DOE) Statistical Process Control (SPC) to optimize electrocoat formulations, deposition process parameters and validate results using Minitab or Design-Expert software; ability to identify and troubleshoot paint defects in the automotive OEM industry; knowledge of DFMEA (Design Failure Effect Analysis) and PFMEA (Process Failure Mode Effect Analysis); demonstrated ability to document and communicate technical progress and innovation; knowledge of characterization techniques of paint and polymer systems. Less than 5% travel required (domestic only) to company locations and for conferences.