R&D Formulation Expert - Specialized in FFF - M/F

Client

Our client delivers high-technology products and supports its customers in selecting equipment designed to protect people and facilities in all fire scenarios. As one of the global leaders in its field, the company plays a key role alongside firefighters and rescue teams and actively contributes to the evolution of international firefighting foam standards.

Poste

In the context of a major transition toward fluorine-free (FFF) solutions and the strengthening of international environmental and regulatory requirements for firefighting foams, you will bring immediately operational expertise and lead high-impact development projects with significant regulatory stakes.

Reporting to the R&D Department, you will play a central role in the development and optimization of FFF formulations for markets such as heavy industry & petrochemicals, aviation, marine, public sector, and infrastructure. You will be involved throughout the entire development cycle, from raw material research to industrialization.

• Lead the development and optimization of fluorine-free (FFF) formulations
• Design and fine-tune complex formulation systems integrating surfactants, polymers, solvents, hydrotropes, and functional additives
• Master the physicochemical mechanisms of foam performance: expansion, drainage, burnback resistance, fresh water/salt water compatibility
• Actively contribute to fire testing programs (laboratory, small-scale, large-scale) and certification processes (EN1568, UL162, ICAO, MILSPEC, etc.)
• Work closely with production, industrialization, quality, procurement, and regulatory affairs teams
• Participate in the identification and evaluation of new raw materials
• Lead pilot phases and ensure successful scale-up to industrial production (process robustness, repeatability, long-term stability)
• Conduct international technological and competitive intelligence

Profil

• Chemical Engineer, Master or PhD in Chemistry with a specialization in formulation, with 10–15 years of experience in formulation, and proven expertise in fluorine-free (FFF) systems
• Strong knowledge of firefighting foams and associated regulations (EN1568, UL162, etc.)
• Industrialization experience (pilot scale, industrial trials, mass production)
• Excellent understanding of industrial constraints: stability, viscosity, material compatibility, corrosion, shelf life
• High level of technical autonomy
• Ability to structure and lead complex projects with a results-driven mindset
• Strong communication skills in an international environment; fluent English is mandatory