Chemist/Engineer, Research and Development

Are you ready to build a career in innovation? The QUIKRETE Companies is looking for a passionate individual to join our team at our state-of-the-art Engineering & Technical Center in Johns Creek, Georgia.

We're hiring for the role of Chemist/Engineer, Research & Development to support our cutting-edge research and product development efforts. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of the construction industry. At QUIKRETE®, we’re leaders in bagged concretes, mortars, and grouts—and we’re making big moves in the CASE market with waterproof membranes, moisture barriers, sealants, and specialty coatings.

This role will primarily support our QUIKRETE® and Custom® Building Products product lines.

What You’ll Do

As a pivotal member of our Research and Development team, you will take a hands-on approach to evaluating novel materials and advancing product formulations, driving our mission to accelerate innovation and deliver smarter solutions for the built environment.

• Drive Product Development: Implement advanced technologies and industry expertise to develop new, high-performance products for both consumer and commercial construction markets.
• Qualify Materials: Design and execute rigorous experimental protocols to evaluate, test, and qualify new raw materials and alternate supplier sources.
• Optimize for Profitability: Engineer and optimize product formulations to drive cost savings and maximize profitability without compromising quality.
• Enhance Performance: Reformulate and redesign existing products to achieve superior performance metrics and meet evolving market demands.
• Mentor and Develop Talent: Supervise, train, and mentor laboratory technicians and junior engineering staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Spearhead R&D Initiatives: Lead and manage the Research and Development (R&D) activities and project lifecycles for designated product categories.

What We’re Looking For

We believe that meaningful impact is driven by a strong technical foundation, relentless curiosity, and a passion for continuous learning. While advanced degrees are welcome, they are not a prerequisite for success in this role.

Education & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s or graduate degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Core Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience in laboratory environments or field applications focused on cement, concrete, paints, coatings, or other construction materials.
• Preferred Expertise: Familiarity with analytical methodologies, product formulation, mechanical testing, Design of Experiments (DoE), cement chemistry, and adhesives or coatings is highly desirable.

Technical & Professional Skills

• Problem Solving: Exceptional critical thinking abilities, utilizing logic and reasoning to evaluate complex challenges and optimize solutions.
• Quantitative Acumen: Strong applied mathematics skills, including proficiency in algebra and complex unit conversions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the proven ability to translate complex technical results and recommendations into clear insights for diverse, cross-functional audiences.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous and analytical approach to all lab work, data collection, and reporting.
• Team Fit & Attitude: Highly motivated and dependable, with a strong desire to develop professionally within a collaborative, fast-paced, and innovation-focused environment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent use of hands and arms for reaching, grasping, and fine motor manipulation.
• Capacity for intermittent standing, walking, turning, sitting, squatting, stooping, and bending
• Ability to safely carry up to 25 lbs., lift/lower up to 50 lbs., and push/pull up to 100 lbs. (with material handling equipment assistance).
• Potential (non-local) travel up to 50%

What You’ll Gain

• Professional Growth: We offer in-depth training, technical certifications, and clear career development paths.
• Supportive Culture: Work with experienced mentors in a friendly, collaborative setting.
• Flexibility & Independence: Manage your workflow with autonomy, backed by a strong support system.

Why Choose QUIKRETE®?

We offer competitive salaries and a full range of benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and personal loss coverage
• Supplemental Life insurance options
• 401(k) plan with generous QUIKRETE® match