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Job Description:

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) is a Fortune 200 global manufacturer with over $15.9B in revenue, known for its decentralized structure, customer-focused innovation, and operational excellence. Founded in 1912, ITW operates across 50+ countries, delivering specialized solutions through its unique 80/20 business model.

Division Overview – ITW Specialty Films

ITW Specialty Films produces high-performance coated and metallized films for industries including Financial Cards, Secure ID, Medical Packaging, and Holographics. With eight facilities across North America and Europe, we combine deep technical expertise with agile manufacturing to meet complex customer needs.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operations Chemist is a key member of our Operations team, supporting web coating and laminating processes for thin film production. Reporting to the Quality Manager, this role drives continuous improvement by investigating, testing, and resolving technical issues in coating operations. Responsibilities include enhancing existing products and processes to reduce scrap and cost and supporting the integration of new products. The Operations Chemist collaborates with cross-functional teams (R&D, manufacturing, quality, legal, and sourcing) to provide technical expertise and ensure safe, consistent production. This position requires strict adherence to safety policies and active participation in site safety programs to promote a strong safety culture.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Support

+ Investigate non-conformances in coating process to determine root cause and provide recommended corrective actions to operations

+ Interact with manufacturing staff to make determinations regarding coating uniformity, mix ratios and adjustments to process components or parameters such as gravure cylinders, anilox rollers, UV power, oven temperatures, coating weights

+ Diagnose performance issues and understand the functions of each chemical component in a formulation.

+ Review, revise, and develop work instructions for mixes and coating processes to provide continuous support to operations

+ Own the end-to-end execution of production trials, including planning, coordination, and completion within established timelines.

+ Perform small scale formulation work and physical testing.

+ Conduct research and verification of alternate sources of raw materials

+ Drive focused improvement and cost savings efforts associated with site projects

+ Participate and complete FMEAs and Control Plans to support existing and new product development

Quality & Process Excellence

+ Apply structured root cause analysis methodologies such as 5 Whys, Fishbone and other problem-solving tools to identify, troubleshoot and resolve technical or quality issues. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions, verify effectiveness, and prevent recurrence, ensuring continuous improvement and compliance with quality standards.

+ Ensure lab processes meet internal standards and support quality assurance in manufacturing.

+ Maintain and develop quality standards for coating applications and evaluation of new products

+ Utilize good documentation practices when generating trial reports, work instructions, formulation sheets, and deviations

+ Recommend new technologies or tools to improve operation processes.

+ Contribute to the evaluation of new lab equipment and testing methods.

Regulatory & Compliance Oversight

+ Maintain accurate hazardous materials (HAZMAT) communication by ensuring proper labeling and up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all hazardous substances. Verify compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements to support a safe work environment.

+ Review and validate SDS documentation for all incoming raw materials to confirm adherence to chemical safety and regulatory standards. Communicate personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements to relevant teams and ensure proper implementation.

+ Assess and determine product compliance with global environmental, health, and safety regulations and industry standards, including REACH, RoHS, TSCA, Prop 65, POP, and ISO requirements. Maintain documentation and provide guidance to ensure ongoing regulatory conformity.

QUALIFICATIONS

_The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions._

+ B.S Degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or Polymer Science

+ 3+ years of direct industrial experience, developing web coatings/adhesives/inks a plus

+ Experience in formulation development and/or polymer science

+ Experience in project management a plus

+ Proficient in written and verbal communication

+ Able to work individually and as part of a multi-disciplinary team

+ Hands on experience with the process development of web coatings a plus

+ Inquisitive, proactive and self-motivated

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING ENVIRONMENT

_The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions._

+ Work is normally performed in a combination of laboratory, office and manufacturing plant work environments. Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in designated areas.

+ Requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, computer use and communication.

+ Frequent exposure to chemicals, UV radiation cure, solvents, etc.

+ Limited physical effort required. Occasionally moves or lifts up to 40 lbs.

Compensation Information:

The salary range for this position is $90,000 – $120,000 annually, based on factors such as relevant experience, education, and skills.

ITW has a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including medical plan options with FSA and HSA plans, dental, prescription drug, vision, 401(k) with a company match, life insurance, wellness programs, employee discounts, 12 paid holidays per year, vacation and sick time starting in year of hire, and a corporate matching gift program for charitable donations! More information can be found here: https://myitwhr.com/

_ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential._

_As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship._

_All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws._