Material Scientist/Chemist (m/f/d) – Technical Foams

About the Company

Join Schmalz, a globally recognized family-run company and market leader specializing in automation using vacuum technology and ergonomic handling systems. With 1800 employees at 31 worldwide locations and multiple awards as a top employer, Schmalz fosters a dynamic and engaged workplace culture. Are you driven to make a meaningful impact? Then you might be the perfect fit as a Material Scientist/Chemist focusing on technical foams.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the development team to determine customer requirements for technical sealants and associated adhesive tapes, converting these needs into detailed supplier specifications.
• Jointly work with suppliers to innovate and refine technical sealants and adhesive tapes, actively contributing to material compositions to satisfy customer demands.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for international material manufacturers and distributors, engaging in expert-level discussions and evaluating new material trends and technical data sheets.
• Design, coordinate, and execute comprehensive experimental series and tests (such as adhesion, aging, and climate tests) to validate material qualifications thoroughly.
• Oversee the seamless transfer of qualified materials into series production, establish optimal process parameters, and prepare necessary documentation and specifications.
• Monitor initial production runs, resolve technical issues concerning adhesion or processing challenges, and continuously improve internal manufacturing procedures.
• Define and supervise testing procedures for material composites and troubleshoot technical problems that arise.
• Advise internal stakeholders including sales, product management, and production on material technology questions and support new customer projects' implementation.

Candidate Profile

• Successful completion of a degree in material development, chemistry, or an equivalent qualification.
• Several years of practical experience in material development, preferably within technical sealing materials (EPDM/Silicone) and industrial adhesives/tapes, including their interactions in composite applications.
• Strong technical understanding of the composition of technical foam and sealing materials with the ability to foster development collaboratively with suppliers.
• Structured and analytical mindset with expertise in designing and conducting Design of Experiments (DOEs), guiding projects through to serial production.
• High initiative, decisiveness, and a proactive approach to shaping developments.
• Willingness to visit and qualify national and international suppliers.
• Proficiency in German and English for effective communication with international partners.

Benefits and Work-Life Balance

• Attractive performance bonuses including profit-sharing and personal success components.
• Regular bonuses credited to an Edenred voucher card redeemable at numerous retailers.
• Access to the Schmalz Academy for extensive personal and professional development opportunities.
• Flexible working hours tailored to individual life circumstances.
• Onsite childcare available for children aged from 8 weeks to 3 years in the Schmalz Kids World with professional caregivers.
• Variety of sport and leisure courses for relaxation and health.
• Community events such as summer festivals, annual celebrations, and team activities to foster camaraderie.