About Sunstar Engineering

Sunstar Engineering is a global leader in adhesives, sealants, coatings, and functional materials for the automotive, construction, and electronics industries. With more than 95 years of history, Sunstar combines deep materials science expertise with a strong culture of innovation to deliver high-performance solutions to customers worldwide. 

Position Overview

Sunstar Engineering is seeking a Plastisol Team Lead Scientist to lead the day-to-day technical execution of our Plastisol Group with a strong emphasis on product development and commercialization.  This role balances hands-on formulation work with team leadership and project management responsibility. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in polymer science and plastisol/PVC formulation and experience executing structured product development processes, preferably APQP.

 Key Responsibilities

• Lead hands-on formulation and development of plastisol- and PVC-based adhesives and sealants.
• Provide day-to-day technical leadership and mentoring for the Plastisol Group.
• Manage multiple product development projects from concept through commercialization.
• Apply structured project management and APQP or stage-gate development processes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, regulatory, and commercial teams.
• Support scale-up, plant trials, validation, and launch activities.
• Serve as a technical interface with customers and internal stakeholders.

Qualifications - Required

•  M.S. or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
•  7+ years of formulation experience in adhesives, sealants, coatings, or related polymer systems.
•  Hands-on experience with plastisol and/or PVC-based formulations.
•  Strong polymer science and formulation fundamentals.
•  Proven ability to lead projects and mentor technical staff.

Qualifications - Preferred:

• Prior team lead or technical leadership experience.
• Experience using APQP, stage-gate, or similar product development frameworks.
• Manufacturing scale-up and plant support experience.
• Automotive, construction, or industrial adhesive/sealant background.

What We Offer

• Leadership role with strong technical impact.
• Opportunity to shape Sunstar's plastisol and PVC product platforms.
• Collaborative, innovation-driven culture.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter highlighting their formulation expertise, leadership experience, and interest in leading a plastisol-focused technical team.