Principal R&D Scientist

Building our Future Together

FXI is a leading manufacturer of polyurethane foam which provides an array of comfort solutions to the Bedding Furniture and Transportation markets. We have made it our mission to provide tailored solutions that delight our customers and consumers. We are an industry leader in the rapidly growing Mattress in a Box segment of the bedding market. We have created a molecules to doorstep business model that leverages our leading innovation scale and footprint to deliver our own brands as well as other leading brands to the market and to consumers doorsteps.

With our corporate headquarters, high-tech research and development facility, and multiple manufacturing locations in North America, FXI has built a culture of innovation and achievement that is recognized by customers, suppliers, and peers. We provide one of the broadest sets of comfort solutions to the broadest set of industry players through the broadest manufacturing platform in the industry. You will find FXIs comfort technologies inside countless applications you encounter every day. Everywhere comfort is needed, FXIs innovations lead the way.

We are always looking for best-in-class talent to join our innovative, fun, and value-driven culture. What are you waiting for? Why Join FXI?

Research & Development

Work in a state-of-the-art Innovation Center equipped with advanced analytical and processing tools. Lead projects that push the boundaries of polyurethane chemistry and foam technology. Have a direct influence on technical and foam products used in real-world applications. Serve as a technical expert within the R&D organization.

Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and career growth opportunities.

Job Overview

The Principal R&D Scientist will operate within FXIs Innovation Center, leading the development of advanced polyurethane foam materials engineered for unique technical applications. An ideal candidate is a motivated, hands-on scientist with a solid foundation in polymer chemistry or materials science, a strong interest in learning polyurethane technology, and a passion for experimentation and problem-solving.

In this role, you will leverage your expertise in polymers, materials, and chemistry to drive innovation in polyurethane foam formulations and products. You will collaborate closely with experienced scientists, manufacturing teams, and cross-functional partners in sales and marketing to help advance projects that expand FXIs technical product offerings.

This position will contribute to key stages of the development process for new materials, from concept and formulation development through testing, scale-up, and commercial implementation. By utilizing the advanced pilot production machinery, analytical tools, testing infrastructure, and deep technical resources within our research organization, you will generate novel solutions and products for high-value technical markets.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop novel polyurethane foam formulations for technical applications
• Aid in continuous improvement and redesign of polyurethane foam formulations for new and existing applications
• Create testing methodologies to quantify product performance in non-standard applications
• Facilitate the transition of new foam formulations from the laboratory bench to large-scale manufacturing
• Quickly and effectively respond to technical service requests from manufacturing and commercial team members
• Report research and development findings in written and presentation format
• Deliver presentations to internal and external audiences.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, or Polymer Chemistry
• Bachelors Degree with 5 years of experience will also be considered
• Degrees in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or other related fields will also be considered
• 3 years of experience in polymers research or engineering
• Experience working in a laboratory setting
• Experience with polymer formulation development preferred
• Experience in materials testing and test method development preferred (not required)
• Experience in technical service and/or technical applications development preferred

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong academic foundation in polymer chemistry, materials science, and structure-property relationships
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively with internal and external colleagues, fostering a collaborative workplace environment
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Effective communication, presentation, and people skills
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

Benefits Summary

We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Basic and optional life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability protection
• 401k plan with company match
• Tuition assistance
• Flexible spending accounts

Our Commitment to a Diverse Workforce

FXI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. FXI does not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, identify or expression, national origin, age, military service eligibility, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or based on any individuals status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We support workplace diversity and believe that diversity contributes to a broader collective perspective that will consistently lead to a better company and better products.

We are working hard to increase the diversity of our team wherever we can. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.

FXI is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. Please, no phone calls or emails. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at FXI via email, the Internet, or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of FXI. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by FXI as a result of the referral or through other means.