This is a hands-on position where your chemistry expertise will directly impact product performance and customer satisfaction in the HI&I (Hygiene & Industrial) and I&I (Industrial & Institutional) markets. You'll work in a laboratory and office setting, conducting meaningful technical work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Project Execution & Data Management:

• Perform, interpret, and record lab project data for Technical Service and R&D initiatives
• Acquire, validate, and maintain data for lab projects with meticulous attention to detail
• Manage complex chemical analyses and testing (HPLC, GC, spectroscopy, or similar techniques)
• Design and execute laboratory experiments to evaluate formulation concepts and customer requirements
• Conduct formulation studies and optimization work to meet customer specifications and product performance targets

Documentation & Reporting:

• Generate comprehensive lab reports summarizing testing, results, and conclusions
• Prepare data processing and documentation using common software tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Datacor/Chempax, eChempax, BRM)
• Create technical documentation, application guides, and customer specifications
• Develop supporting materials for regulatory submissions and compliance requirements (safety data sheets, claims substantiation)
• Maintain clear, organized records of all technical work

Customer-Focused Development:

• Partner with customers to understand technical requirements and develop customized cleaning solutions
• Provide technical support to customers, principals, sales team, and product line portfolio
• Support customer trials, field testing, and product validation
• Provide technical guidance on product applications, performance, best practices, and polymer technology
• Troubleshoot customer challenges and recommend solutions with supporting data

Product Development & Innovation:

• Contribute to new product development initiatives with emphasis on cleaners and polymer technology
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, Marketing, Regulatory, Sales) on product launches
• Analyze results and document findings to support product performance and claims
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in cleaning chemistry and polymers
• Share best practices with lab team members and other divisions

Laboratory Operations & Safety:

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper safety protocols
• Ensure safety procedures and housekeeping are maintained to protect yourself, co-workers, and the environment
• Champion a safety-first mindset for yourself and others in the facility
• Perform general lab duties including cleanup, equipment maintenance, and chemical/disposables inventory
• Track and order chemicals and disposables used in the lab as needed

Teamwork & Communication

• Communicate effectively with other lab technicians throughout the organization to stay updated on processes, protocols, and trends
• Provide additional documentation and supporting information across departments upon request
• Develop meaningful and productive business relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Adapt communication style to effectively present complex chemistry to customers, sales teams, and non-technical audiences
• Collaborate cross-functionally and support team members with a commitment to mutual respect

Continuous Improvement & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to all applicable facility requirements, certifications, and designations
• Contribute to and support continuous improvement of processes, systems, and lab protocols
• Seek opportunities to improve efficiency and share best practices with the team
• Support quality management and regulatory compliance initiatives

Company Culture & Development

• Support and lead by example, following Barentz' purpose, strategies, and values
• Act legally and ethically in all professional relationships
• Contribute to an environment of trust and mutual respect
• Foster an inclusive and diverse workplace where every team member feels valued
• Seek out and participate in ongoing growth and personal development opportunities
• Embrace Barentz' learning and development culture

Required Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related Science field (required)

Experience:

• Minimum 10+ years of previous experience in a laboratory setting (required)
• Demonstrated expertise in cleaning chemistry formulations and/or HI&I/I&I products
• Experience with polymer technology, surfactants, and specialty chemicals
• Experience working directly with customers on technical support and product development
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and compliance in cleaning products

Technical Skills & Knowledge:

• Deep understanding of surfactant chemistry, detergents, polymers, and/or related additive systems
• Understanding of cleaning mechanisms and substrate compatibility
• Strong laboratory and analytical skills (HPLC, GC, spectroscopy, or similar techniques)
• Proficiency with software tools: Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Datacor/Chempax, eChempax, or similar lab management systems
• Experience using industry-related technologies and equipment

Soft Skills:

• Self-motivated with high energy and genuine enthusiasm for technical work
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and complex problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities with ability to adapt to different audiences
• Ability to effectively prioritize work assignments and manage multiple projects
• Demonstrated ability to develop meaningful and productive business relationships
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and record-keeping practices
• Collaborative team player with commitment to safety and continuous improvement

Preferred Qualification

• Industry-related certifications (Laboratory Technician, Quality Management, Regulatory, Project Management, etc.)
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemistry or related field
• 8+ years of technical experience in HI&I, I&I, or related industries
• Published technical papers or patent experience
• Experience with pilot-scale manufacturing or scale-up activities
• Knowledge of sustainability and green chemistry principles
• Experience with ASTM or ISO testing standards
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and quality systems