BASF is seeking a Scientist III to join our Research & Development team focused on developing automotive coatings and surface treatments. In this role, you will apply creative problem-solving and hands-on experimentation to advance our technology, while leading projects and collaborating with a global network of technical experts.
What You'll Do
- Leverage expertise in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials/Polymer Science to independently develop technical strategies for solving coatings-specific problems.
- Design and perform hands-on experiments using your knowledge of coating preparation, application, and testing.
- Lead development projects, summarizing results, recommending next steps, and generating reports and presentations for stakeholders.
- Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical individuals, including customers, and support new product launches at customer plants.
- Collaborate with the BASF global technical community in Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and China.
What We're Looking For
- One of the following combinations of education and experience:
- A B.S. degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science with at least 10 years of experience in automotive coatings.
- A Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science with at least 5 years of experience in automotive coatings.
- A Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science, preferably with 1-2 years of relevant experience.
- Deep understanding of organic/polymer chemistry and the ability to apply creative chemistry in coatings materials science.
- Demonstrated expertise in polymer structure-property relationships.
- A positive and teamworking spirit.
Nice to Have
- Experience with statistical analysis and Design of Experiments to solve scientific problems.
Team & Environment
You will be part of the R&D team within BASF's Coatings division.
Benefits & Compensation
- Flexible work arrangements whenever possible.
- Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options.
- Well-being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members.
- Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more).
- Back-up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages.
- Mentoring and career development opportunities.
- Matching gifts program for qualified charities.
- Employee crisis support.
- Access to BASF wine cellar and employee discounts.
Work Mode
This is an onsite position based in Southfield, MI.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
