We supply the sustainable and innovative paints and coatings that our customers, communities - and the environment - are increasingly relying on. Our world class portfolio of brands - including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon - is trusted by customers around the globe. We're active in more than 150 countries and have set our sights on becoming the global industry leader. It's what you'd expect from a pioneering paints company that's committed to science-based targets and is taking genuine action to address globally relevant challenges and protect future generations.
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The role of a Specialist I is to develop, prepare, execute, and analyze research elements in a giventechnical field, in order to gain insights into new development and improve existing research methodology,in line with R&D strategy, project, and R&D fictional standards in one of the following areas:
Developing new products, technologies, and test methods (including in areas where nothing existedpreviously in the business)
Developing a fundamental understanding of key coating attributes
Testing/support of existing products, processes, and coating system
Key Responsibilities
Internally recognized as an expert (e.g. has a broad or deep understanding ofscience/chemistry for product type in some areas) and shares expertise withother professionals e.g. act as a consultant and provide functional guidance to amix of G-level positions. Ensures retention of knowledge through thepreparation of technical reports
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of products and/ortechnologies/techniques/processes in their recognized field(s) and applies thisknowledge to develop technically feasible solutions that meet customer needs
Support assessment of technologies, processes, and capabilities e.g. for internal &external technology providers/researchers to highlight opportunities forcollaboration
Proactively looks for and implements new techniques and methodologies andshares with other professionals
Initiates idea generation in others and contributes to idea generation by buildingon others' ideas e.g. leading test method development &/or developing newproducts and technologies. Considers viability of solutions, implementationconsiderations, and plan
Responsible for effective delivery of assigned projects/activities, Work Proposal Documents (WPDs),research, or work requests on time. Typically works on one complex project orseveral smaller projects or work requests. Identify risks and barriers to successfuldelivery within work and propose recommendations for resolution tomanage the risk. Communicates effectively with both internal and externalaudiences (including customer interactions)
Proficiency in information retrieval systems to continuously keep abreast ofchemical, scientific, intellectual property, and competitors' literature. Providedetailed patent and literature searches with recommendations/conclusions asrequired. Prompt communication of relevant internal & external newdevelopments within the Business Unit
Contribute within AkzoNobel technical forums e.g. Corrosion Protection (CoP), Polymer Allocation Process (PAP), Analytical Networkdeveloping a professional network of contacts within AkzoNobel & highlightingopportunities for technology transfer as required
Maintains and promotes a safe working environment e.g. member of the 5S team,supports Health &Safetyengagement audits, supports Behavioral Based Safety (BBS) processes
Level of Autonomy
Makes technical decisions independently under general guidance. Progress of activityreviewed by the manager. Seeks agreement on key next steps from manager or moresenior colleagues.
Examples:
Typically works on one complex project or several smaller project or workrequests by effectively prioritizing their work based in business drivers andvalue. Effectively communicates results to key internal stakeholders, can makedecisions on technical direction/next steps independently with just generalguidance from line manager. Demonstrates ability to problem solve technicalissues within project(s)/work requests and propose solutions
Designs new products, processes, solutions, and methods where nothing existedpreviously within the business
Identifies opportunities to collaborate with external parties based in key technicalrequirements (e.g. new technology required for a product development project,the requirement for external testing by a 3rd party research group), is able to coordinate the collaboration agreement and be the lead contact, ensuringprogress updates are provided to key stakeholders. Is able to identify theintellectual property opportunities and can take steps to ensure that this isprotected.
Could act as a trainer, technical mentor or advisor to the other personnel in theR&D team and wider BU in their field of expertise. This could include practicallaboratory-based training, problem solving on specific technical issues, claimsmanagement, face to face customer support, idea generation, new technologysourcing
Proactively develops and sustains a professional network to supportthemselves, effective progression of day-to-day activities, and to support longerterm competency/capability requirements. Makes recommendations based oncompetency and capability gaps identified in road mapping process, projectsand support work requests.
Contributes to IP applications for own research work; analyses 3rd party IP inown area
Job Requirements
Bachelor of Science, Masters, PhD+. Typically >5 years experience or equivalent relevant experience
At AkzoNobel we are highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace where all employees can be their best self. We strive to embrace diversity in a context of tolerance. Our talent acquisition process plays an integral part in this journey, as setting the foundations for a diverse environment. For this reason we train and educate on the implications of our Unconscious Bias in order for our TA and hiring managers to be mindful of them and take corrective actions when applicable. In our organization, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability.
