Job Description

WHO WE ARE:

Kowa Company, Ltd. is a global enterprise founded in 1894, headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, with annual revenues of approximately USD 5 billion for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023. With over 7,800 employees worldwide, Kowa operates across diverse industries, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and specialty chemicals. Kowa American Corporation (KAC), a wholly owned subsidiary, is headquartered in New York, NY, and is expanding its Specialty Chemicals Distribution business by establishing an applications laboratory to support product development and customer engagement.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING:

The Technical Manager at Kowa American Corporation will play a pivotal role in developing and optimizing coatings, oligomers/polymers, and UV & Energy curable formulations to support the company’s Specialty Chemicals Distribution business. This individual must have experience in solventborne, waterborne, and 100% solids formulations, with a strong focus on research, innovation, and process optimization.

The individual will work closely with R&D, sales, and manufacturing teams to identify new opportunities, troubleshoot formulation challenges, and ensure product performance meets market and customer needs. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical knowledge in coatings chemistry, polymer science, and formulation & reverse engineering design, along with hands-on laboratory experience in formulation testing, analytical techniques, and regulatory compliance.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

• Develop and optimize formulations to support the KOWA Specialty Chemicals Distribution business.
• Conduct research projects that deliver data-driven solutions to meet business objectives.
• Design, develop, and execute pre-formulation and formulation studies, evaluating product stability, performance, and cost efficiency.
• Adapt or modify experimental methods to achieve technical objectives and optimize formulations.
• Analyze raw materials, resin systems, curing agents, pigments, fillers, and other components for enhanced product performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve formulation-related challenges, utilizing experimental (Design of Experiments DOE’s) and analytical techniques.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Coordinate cross-functional activities between R&D, sales, and manufacturing teams to meet client product development objectives.
• Document and report formulation processes, technical findings, and progress updates.
• Present findings internally and externally, contributing to discussions on project development.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement in formulation processes.
• Travel up to 30% of the time for business-related engagements.
• Perform other duties as assigned and modified at the manager’s discretion.

WHAT YOU BRING:

• Deep understanding of coating, polymer, and UV & Energy-curable formulations, including solventborne, waterborne, and 100% solids systems.
• Proficiency in physical and chemical testing, environmental/weathering aging techniques, and use of analytical instruments or the willingness to learn/take courses.
• Familiarity with commercially available resins, pigments, fillers, curing agents, and additives for formulation development.
• Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve complex formulation and process-related issues.
• Regulatory & Safety Compliance – Knowledge of safety protocols, chemical handling regulations, and industry best practices in a laboratory setting.
• Understanding of formulation processes, equipment, and scale-up methodologies for commercialization.
• Strong curiosity and creativity to explore new ideas and optimize formulations for improved performance and cost efficiency.
• Ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams, including R&D, sales, and manufacturing.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication to document research findings, present technical insights, and collaborate with stakeholders.
• Strong focus on precision and accuracy in formulation design, testing, and reporting.
• Ability to adjust to changing project requirements, troubleshoot challenges, and stay focused under pressure.

WHAT YOU MUST HAVE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with 10 years of industry experience, OR Master’s/Ph.D. in the same fields with 5 years of relevant experience in formulation development.
• At least 5 years of experience and understanding of coating, oligomer/polymer, and UV & Energy-curable formulations, including solventborne, waterborne, and 100% solids systems.
• At least 5 years in physical and chemical testing, environmental/weathering aging techniques, and use of analytical instruments.
• Proven track record of success in leading teams and growth initiatives.
• Experience working in a global team and matrix organization is a plus.
• Experience and success in “pull-through” sales is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

WHY JOIN US:

This is your chance to work with a forward-thinking team and make a meaningful impact on an exciting and evolving industry. If you thrive on innovation, collaboration, and delivering results, we want you on board.

WHAT WE OFFER:

KOWA is committed to investing in our employees—the driving force behind our mission and success—by offering a comprehensive suite of competitive compensation and benefits. We prioritize work-life balance, ensuring you not only thrive in your career but also have the support, time, and resources to lead a happy, healthy life.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Insurance options for Employee Assistance Programs, Basic Life Insurance, Short/Long Term Disability and more.
• 401(k) with a company match
• Vacation, Sick Leave, and Paid Holidays
• Education Assistance

Job Tags

Similar Jobs