Senior R&D Coatings Chemist

CUTEK Wood Solutions is a global wood protection brand, innovating from Australia to the world. For the first time in our history, we are opening a Senior R&D Coatings Chemist role to lead innovation in our expanding Research & Development Department. This is a rare opportunity to join a family-founded, values-driven, and rapidly growing international manufacturer.

You'll be entrusted to invent, develop, and scale next-generation timber and architectural coatings. From first principles formulation, through lab-to-plant transfer, to commercialisation—you'll make ideas real.

• Invent and prototype novel coatings for architectural & timber applications (paints, stains, clears, preservatives).
• Drive lab → pilot → plant transfer, including Design of Experiments (DoE), pilot trials, and control plans.
• Lead regulatory compliance: AICIS, GHS/SDS, VOC targets, APAS; collaborate on REACH, TSCA, PMRA, and EPA frameworks.
• Build and maintain crisp technical documentation: TDS/PDS, validation reports, formulation records, change control.
• Mentor and collaborate with Production, QC, Sales, and suppliers.
• Work in a confidential IP-protected environment, safeguarding innovations.

• Senior-level experience in architectural & wood coatings formulation with proven market launches.
• Strong formulation science: dispersion, rheology, adhesion, durability, weathering, preservative efficacy.
• Track record of successful lab → plant transfer and troubleshooting.
• Compliance expertise: AICIS, GHS/SDS, VOC; familiarity with APAS strongly valued.
• Organised, disciplined, and detail-focused, with strong documentation habits.
• Innovative, trustworthy, and IP-aware—creative thinker with integrity.
• Collaborative leadership style; experience working cross-functionally and mentoring others.

• Deliver 1–2 new platforms (e.g., resin/additive systems) and 3–5 derivative SKUs.
• Demonstrate stable scale-up with robust batch instructions.
• Identify cost savings via product substitution or process improvements.
• Compliance system robust: SDS/TDS current, audits passed, documentation up to date.
• Faster time-to-spec and reduced deviations on new launches.

At CUTEK Wood Solutions, you'll be part of a company that is more than a manufacturer — we are true Wood Champions. We are a rapidly growing international business at the forefront of timber protection and coatings innovation. With new international markets opening and significant growth across existing territories, this is a rare opportunity to join a company in full expansion mode.

What sets us apart is our genuinely solutions-orientated approach. We listen carefully to the needs of the wood industry and develop bespoke formulas and products that help our customers be successful. Every project is driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a passion for making wood more sustainable, durable, and desirable.

In this role, you'll have a genuine innovation mandate — the chance to shape our global technical future, work hands-on with coatings and chemistry, and bring ideas to life that have worldwide impact. You'll be joining a dynamic, enthusiastic team that thrives on creativity, values integrity, and dreams of new possibilities.

At CUTEK, you'll be trusted with meaningful work, supported by people who care, and empowered to make your mark on an industry that is evolving fast.

Apply now to be part of our next chapter of global growth.