R&D Senior Chemist - Industrial Protective Coatings

About the role

A client of Agile Consultants is looking for an experienced R&D Senior Chemist in Dubai, working on industrial protective coatings. The role focuses on heat-resistant, thermal barrier and thermal insulation coatings, developing, testing and improving formulations for high-temperature performance, durability and corrosion protection. Candidates must have direct R&D formulation experience in these high-temperature coatings; experience limited to architectural or decorative paints will not be considered.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, formulate and improve industrial protective coatings, especially heat-resistant and thermal barrier systems.
• Carry out R&D work on resin chemistry, binder systems, curing mechanisms and raw material selection.
• Run laboratory tests for thermal performance, corrosion resistance, weathering and durability.
• Manage R&D projects from formulation and testing through validation and documentation.
• Analyse test results, troubleshoot formulation issues and recommend improvements.
• Support product development for corrosion under insulation (CUI) and corrosion under fireproofing (CUF).
• Ensure formulations meet international testing and performance standards.
• Contribute to new product development, innovation and sustainability initiatives.
• Give technical guidance to junior chemists and laboratory technicians.

Required profile

• Master's degree with at least 10 years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's degree with at least 12 years, or PhD with at least 5 years.
• Mandatory experience in R&D formulation of industrial heat-resistant, thermal barrier, thermal insulation or similar high-temperature protective coatings.
• Ability to independently manage R&D projects and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, and proficiency in written and spoken English.

Required skills

• Protective coating formulation, resin chemistry, binder systems and curing mechanisms.
• Coating performance testing, including thermal resistance, corrosion protection and accelerated testing.
• CUI/CUF protection technologies and international coating standards.