At GAF, we cover more than buildings. We cover each other. No matter what role, tenure, or track, under this roof you are empowered to be there for your teammates, your customers, and especially your community. Under this roof, we don’t back down from hard work– we support one another in pursuit of something bigger. We define the future while leading the present. And under this roof, we own our opportunities. Becoming the market leader only happens when everyone feels they have the opportunity, and the support, to thrive. We are GAF. And under this roof, we protect what matters most.
Job Summary
As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in innovative solutions for the building materials industry, we are currently in the exciting phase of building out a specialized team dedicated to advancing Asphalt Technology-focused on expanding our understanding of asphaltic based materials and the interactions with other materials for the roofing and waterproofing industry.
The Principal Analytical Chemist-Asphalt will lead technical projects in the Analytical Laboratory. The Analytical Lab is expected to develop new methods and technologies for testing asphalt, asphalt additives, petroleum based materials, polymers and process by-products. The individual will apply a solid knowledge of molecular structure and property relationships and various chemical techniques to deformulate coatings and adhesive formulations for shingle products and applications. The Principal Scientist should have the ability to utilize, adapt and develop new methods for analytical techniques such as GPC, HPLC, FTIR, UV-vis, rheometry, TGA, DSC, DMA and other instrumentation to evaluate the properties, characteristics, performance and durability of asphaltic materials. The individual should be creative to develop new approaches to material testing and characterization.
Essential Duties
Initiate, plan, and conduct major research and development projects based on sound scientific and engineering principles.Provide technical leadership in the identification and pursuit of novel applications and solutions.Utilize laboratory skills to discover novel ways of analyzing materials in order to achieve better understanding of structure-property relationships, especially as they relate to material product performance.Utilize knowledge of and experience with design of experiments (DOE).Use statistical methods and scientific principles to analyze and interpret experimental data and help make data-based technical decisions and make recommendations regarding future work.Interact effectively with other industry professionals in order to facilitate the transfer and sharing of technical data and information.Exercise effective coordination and supervision of technical resources.May supervise at least one technician.Develop outside contacts to facilitate information gathering and product/material evaluations.Document all work done in a clear and logical manner.
Qualifications Required
Ph.D. Degree in Analytical Chemistry or related science with a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience, not including graduate research level work OR MS Degree in Analytical Chemistry or related science with a minimum of 8 years relevant work experience, OR BS Degree in Analytical Chemistry or related science with a minimum of 10 years relevant work experience.Working knowledge of material properties testing and characterization. Knowledge of colloid and surface chemistry, emulsions, dispersions, surfactants or coatings. Experience in petroleum and/or polymer testing and characterizations is a plus.Self-directed and able to establish project direction and plans.Possess an understanding of the different spectroscopic, thermogravimetric and chromatographic techniques and instrumentation, and their potential utilization in the analysis of building materials.Works at a high conceptual level providing novel approaches.Utilizes a logical scientific approach to identify and initiate development projects.Approaches problems in an analytical way.Understands and uses designed experiments rather than trial and error.Presents results in a sound, statistically valid way.Works well with others - utilizes all resources available to the fullest.Consistently documents all work accurately and completely.Communicates clearly to both immediate and senior management.Good oral and written communication skills.Provides leadership by example regarding safe work practices.Completes assignments in a timely manner.A common sense approach to R&D, but willing and able to think outside the box.Possess computer skill set commensurate with necessary job functions.
Travel Requirements: up to 10%
How We Protect What Matters Most:1. We offer a wide range of health insurance options that include medical, dental, and vision for you and your family. 2. Our Family-Building benefits support the many different journeys to fertility and parenthood. 3. Our robust 401K plan includes an employer match contribution with your pre-tax and/or Roth contributions. 4. Other exciting programs and perks are available to help employees achieve work-life balance, including (but not limited to) a wellness program, free financial coaching, a referral program, and product rebates when purchased for an employee’s primary residence. 5. Professional growth and development are very important to us! We offer internal training programs and courses, as well as a generous tuition reimbursement program. 6. We put diversity and inclusion into action with our Employee Resource Groups, which unite employees based on common perspectives, identities, demographic factors, or out of a desire to be an ally.
GAF complies with federal, state, and local disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact HR Services at 833-HR-XPERT.
We believe our employees are our greatest resource. We offer competitive salary, benefits, 401k, and vacation packages for all full time permanent positions. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and GAF, Standard Logistics, SGI, and Siplast are proud to be affirmative action employers. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. If applying for positions in the U.S., must be eligible to work in the U.S. without need for employer sponsored visa (work permit).