Synthetic Industrial Chemist - Wharton, NJ | leidos Job

The Defense Sector at Leidos currently has an opening for a Synthetic Chemist to work at our Picatinny Arsenal, NJ site.

In this role, you will bridge the gap between innovative research and practical application by conducting the design, synthesis, scale-up, and characterization of novel materials, with a strong focus on advanced polymer systems.

Primary Responsibilities.

Design and execute novel synthetic approaches to develop new materials, with a particular focus on polymers, macromolecules, and functional binders.

Conduct process optimization, formulation, and scale-up studies to transition bench-scale polymer and material synthesis into pilot-scale or large-scale production.

Perform ongoing literature searches and patent reviews to maintain deep awareness of the latest industrial ingredients, polymerization processes, and material science techniques.

Develop alternate, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable methods for the synthesis and processing of existing materials.

Characterize polymers and synthetic materials utilizing state-of-the-art analytical, physical, and mechanical testing techniques (e.g., GPC/SEC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, NMR, and rheology).

Translate research into actionable data by preparing technical reports, standard operating procedures (SOPs), publications, and presentations.

Formulate novel research ideas and actively contribute to technical proposals for future R&D initiatives.

Basic Qualifications.

BS/MS in Organic  or Polymer Chemistry,  with 2–6 years of relevant experience in an industrial R&D or manufacturing environment.

Demonstrated experience in organic and/or polymer synthesis (e.g., free radical, condensation, ring-opening polymerization) or advanced materials development.

Hands-on experience with analytical and physical characterization methods for polymers and organic molecules, including chromatographic (HPLC, GPC) and spectroscopic (NMR, FTIR) techniques.

Strong research mindset with a proven ability to design experiments, troubleshoot synthetic pathways, and document findings systematically.

Ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary, team-based environment

US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications.

M.S. or higher degree in Polymer or Organic Chemistry.

Experience in the defense sector or knowledge of energetic materials, polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs), or specialized binders is a significant plus.

Familiarity with pilot-plant operations, chemical safety protocols (HAZOP), or scale-up engineering principles

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

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