R&D Chemist - Thermal Coating

Job Title: R&D Senior Chemist – Industrial Protective Coatings

Location: Dubai

Salary: Based on experience

Job Code: 238/001/626

Industry: Paints & Coatings / Industrial Protective Coatings

Job Brief:

Our client is seeking an experienced R&D Senior Chemist with strong hands-on experience in industrial protective coatings formulation, particularly heat-resistant coatings, thermal barrier coatings, and thermal insulation coatings.

The role involves developing, testing, and improving coating formulations, with a focus on high-temperature performance, durability, and corrosion protection.

Candidates must have direct R&D formulation experience in heat-resistant, thermal barrier, thermal insulation, or similar high-temperature industrial protective coatings. Experience limited to architectural or decorative paints will not be considered.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop, formulate, and improve industrial protective coatings, particularly heat-resistant and thermal barrier coating systems.
• Conduct R&D activities involving resin chemistry, binder systems, curing mechanisms, and raw material selection.
• Perform laboratory testing to evaluate thermal performance, corrosion resistance, weathering, and coating durability.
• Manage R&D projects from formulation and testing through validation and documentation.
• Analyse test results, troubleshoot formulation issues, and recommend product improvements.
• Support product development related to corrosion under insulation (CUI) and corrosion under fireproofing (CUF).
• Ensure coating formulations meet relevant international testing and performance standards.
• Contribute to new product development, innovation, and sustainability initiatives.
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior chemists and laboratory technicians.

Job Requirements:

• Master's Degree with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience; or
• Bachelor's Degree with at least 12 years of relevant experience; or
• PhD with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Mandatory experience in R&D formulation of industrial heat-resistant coatings, thermal barrier coatings, thermal insulation coatings, or similar high-temperature protective coating systems.
• Strong knowledge of protective coating formulations, resin chemistry, binder systems, and curing mechanisms.
• Experience in coating performance testing, including thermal resistance, corrosion protection, and accelerated testing.
• Knowledge of CUI/CUF protection technologies and relevant international coating standards.
• Ability to independently manage R&D projects and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

Key Specialisation: Industrial Protective Coatings | Heat-Resistant Coatings | Thermal Barrier Coatings | Thermal Insulation Coatings | High-Temperature Coating Formulation