Lead Scientist

Date: Feb 20, 2026

Location(s):

Libertyville, IL, US, 60048-3781

Location(s):

Libertyville, IL, US, 60048-3781

Company: Hollister Incorporated

We Make Life More Rewarding and Dignified

Location: Libertyville
Department: Research & Development

Summary

The Lead Scientist, Technology Development advances Hollister’s Ostomy R&D portfolio by leading the design, development, and commercialization of polymeric technologies— including deep expertise in polymers, adhesives, materials characterization and formulation development —to deliver measurable performance and customer benefits. The role drives cross‑functional programs from concept through scale‑up, provides technical leadership and mentoring, and ensures scientific rigor in experimental design, materials characterization, and data‑driven decision making.

Success in this role requires deep expertise in polymer science and processing (e.g., extrusion, injection molding), demonstrated experience optimizing formulations, and the ability to translate user needs into technical requirements while operating within quality and regulatory expectations. An advanced degree (MS or PhD) and 8+ years of relevant industry experience are required.

Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and optimization of novel formulations and mixing processes
Oversee and conduct research on polymer and adhesive materials to improve product performance, durability, and stability.
Develop test methods related to skin health function testing and lead capability enhancement initiatives.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, clinical sciences, quality, and manufacturing, to ensure smooth product development and commercialization.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor.
Provide recommendations for technology, equipment, processes and materials.
Develop a deep understanding of product insights related to ostomy care and continence care and integrate user needs with formulation development objectives.

Essential Functions of the Role

Conducting experiments, simulations, and feasibility studies.
Lifting, pulling and/or pushing up to 30 pounds
Communicate effectively via email, phone, and virtual platforms.
Ensure data accuracy and confidentiality in compliance with company and legal standards.

Education & Work Requirements

Masters Degree with a minimum of 6 years of related experience

Education & Work Preferences

MS or PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
8+ years of industry experience in research, development, and/or manufacturing environments with evidence of technical leadership.
Proficiency in formulation development (e.g., extrusion, injection molding) and materials characterization; demonstrated ability to design and execute complex experiments.
Strong analytical problem‑solving skills; ability to translate user needs into technical requirements and to drive data‑informed decisions.
Clear, concise technical communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and with external partners.
Experience generating technical reports and supporting intellectual property (e.g., invention disclosures, patents).
Experience with medical skin‑contact formulations (e.g., hydrocolloid adhesives) and related test methods.
Background in compatibilization strategies, interfacial adhesion, and surface science for multi‑material systems.
Experience with nonwovens and advanced manufacturing processes relevant to ostomy products and related devices.
Familiarity with scale‑up/technology transfer to manufacturing and with quality/regulatory expectations for medical devices.

Competencies

Be Agile - Innovates and adapts quickly, approaching change with curiosity while persisting through obstacles.
Be Customer Centric - Considers the needs, experiences and feedback of customers in all we do.
Be People-Focused - Builds trust and collaborates with an inclusive and empathetic approach.
Be Performance Driven - Operates with an ownership mindset, driving meaningful outcomes.
Live The Schneiders’ Legacy, Our Noble Purpose - Passionately serves Our Mission and Vision, while demonstrating the Immutable Principles.

Our Total Rewards package in aggregate is above market and includes competitive pay, paid time off programs, peer-to-peer recognition, health and life insurance, wellness programs and incentives, and generous retirement savings.

The anticipated base pay range for this position is $110,000 - $156,000 yearly. The actual salary varies based on applicant's location, education, experience, skills, abilities, and other legitimate business factors.
This position is also eligible to participate in the Hollister Corporate Bonus Plan.
The Company’s health and welfare benefits include medical, prescription, dental, vision, spending/savings accounts, disability, company paid (parental and caregiver) leaves, statutory leaves/disability programs, accident, life, wellbeing, education assistance, adoption assistance, and voluntary benefit programs.
The Company’s 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan includes: auto-enrollment, ROTH, vesting and eligible participants “safe harbor” matching contributions.
The Company’s paid time off benefits include: 11 paid holidays, paid vacation based on length of service and exempt/non-exempt status, and sick days based on statutory requirements and/or exempt/non-exempt status.
The Company’s additional benefits include: education assistance and adoption assistance benefit programs.

About Hollister Incorporated
Hollister Incorporated is an independent, employee-owned company that develops, manufactures and markets healthcare products worldwide. The company spearheads the advancement of innovative products for ostomy care, continence care and critical care, and also creates educational support materials for patients and healthcare professionals. Headquartered in Libertyville, Illinois, Hollister has manufacturing and distribution centers on three continents and sells in nearly 80 countries. Hollister is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Firm of John Dickinson Schneider, Inc., and is guided both by its Mission to make life more rewarding and dignified for people who use our products and services, as well as its Vision to grow and prosper as an independent, employee-owned company, and in the process, to become better human beings.

Hollister operates in a hybrid work environment. 4 days onsite per week is required starting in May, 2026.

EOE Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Job Req ID: 35651