Scientist – Coatings Development

About the role

Axalta is seeking a Customer Support Scientist to join its OEM Business Technology team. The role focuses on developing cost‑effective, high‑quality coating products that meet customer specifications and can be efficiently manufactured.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimize coating recipes following the APQP process, including lab sampling and testing to meet color and performance specs.
• Ensure recipes are cost‑effective by selecting low‑cost materials while maintaining profitability.
• Collaborate with Operations and other functions to scale up new or modified products into production.
• Work with the application team to define line‑simulation parameters for first‑time‑right product introductions.
• Maintain and update test specifications, develop new methods, and minimize testing while satisfying customer requirements.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and support internal or external quality audits.
• Attend line trials at customer sites and lead problem‑solving activities using methodologies such as 8D.
• Identify rework routes to reduce non‑productive inventory and ensure safety, health, and environmental compliance.

Required profile

• Minimum 7 years of coating experience, preferably in commercial vehicle, industrial, or refinish coating development.
• B.S. in Chemistry or related field, or equivalent research experience.
• Strong project‑management and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficient in English (verbal and written).
• Team‑oriented with good collaboration skills.

Required skills

• Coating formulation and recipe optimization
• APQP process knowledge
• Cost analysis and profitability assessment
• Scale‑up and production transfer
• Line simulation and trial support
• Test method development and specification management
• 8D problem‑solving methodology
• Safety hazard identification
• Microsoft Office, database handling, statistical analysis