Plant Chemist - Defense: 3rd Shift

Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 3rd shift (8:30pm-7:00am)

Salary: $50.000-$60,000

Since 1923, Hentzen Coatings has remained an independent, privately held company dedicated to excellence in the development and manufacture of advanced coatings. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and service has earned us recognition as a trusted partner and technology leader in the aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

With nearly a century of experience, we've mastered the art of custom-engineering coatings to meet the unique and demanding requirements of our customers. This innovation comes to life in our state-of-the-art facilities, where talented teams collaborate to solve complex challenges and deliver cutting-edge solutions.

At Hentzen, you'll find more than a job-you'll discover an opportunity to learn, grow, and make an impact. If you're ready to join a company known for its heritage of innovation and dedication to its people, we invite you to explore a rewarding career with us.

The Plant Chemist - Defense is responsible for performing quality control testing and supporting manufacturing operations for defense-related products. This role involves laboratory analysis, batch evaluation, process troubleshooting, and close collaboration with production personnel to ensure products meet required specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements.

Successful candidates will have an acceptable score on the color matching and math tests.

DESCRIPTION OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Perform quality control testing including weight per gallon, viscosity, color measurement, sag resistance, NVM, adhesion, and other assigned physical or analytical tests.
• Operate specialized laboratory measuring and weighing equipment to determine batch characteristics.
• Evaluate test results against established specifications and quality standards.
• Identify and report questionable or nonconforming results to the Supervisor in a timely manner.
• Adjust out-of-specification materials through chemical additions based on test data and supervisory guidance.
• Make independent decisions regarding batch quality, disposition, and release status.
• Work directly with manufacturing to correct problem batches, including rework and tinting procedures.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, test results, and documentation.
• Keep laboratory and work areas clean, organized, and compliant with housekeeping and safety standards.
• Assist with product development and resolve technical issues with minimal supervision.
• Provide technical support for existing customer accounts as required.
• Develop and apply analytical methods to identify and solve quality, production, and process-related issues.
• Assist in training and supporting production personnel in quality and problem-solving activities.
• Reduce or rework distressed or nonconforming inventory to minimize waste and inventory levels.
• Comply with all company quality, safety, environmental, and workplace policies and regulations.
• Participate in hazardous waste disposal activities as part of housekeeping procedures, in accordance with company training and regulatory requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Manager.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field strongly preferred.

• Experience:

  • One to three years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred.
  • Experience in coatings, chemicals, or related industries is highly desirable.

• Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to read, understand, and apply complex mathematical calculations.
  • Ability to receive and provide instructions in a positive and professional manner.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • High-energy, results-driven individual with excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Proactive work ethic with the ability to meet project deadlines.
  • Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; familiarity with ERP systems and standard office equipment.
  • Demonstrates company core values, including Integrity, Loyalty, Passion

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Our facility offers a state-of-the-art, climate-controlled environment supported by advanced HVAC systems that maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, handling, and reaching.
• Regular sitting, balancing, and stooping; occasional climbing, foot-operated machine use, and reaching above shoulders.
• Regular lifting/moving of up to 65 lbs.; occasional lifting/moving of up to 100 lbs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety shoes, safety glasses, and flame-retardant uniforms or lab coats are required in production areas.
• Respirators and ear plugs are required for specific production processes.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package.
• Generous PTO policy
• 401(k) Employer Match: We match employee contributions up to 8% of eligible compensation.
• Profit Sharing: Discretionary annual contribution based on company performance.
• Employee referral bonus program
• Monthly employee food trucks
• ...and much more!

Please send resume to:

Hentzen Coatings, Inc.

Attn: Human Resources

6937 W. Mill Road

Milwaukee, WI 53218

or

APPLY ONLINE AT:

Hentzen Career Center

Women, minorities, Veterans, and disabled individuals are encouraged to apply

HENTZEN COATINGS INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

www.hentzen.com

Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

All candidates are subject to a post offer pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.