Color Systems - Applied Color Scientist

Job Title: Applied Color Scientist

Summary

Axalta Coating Systems is a global leader in high-performance coatings, delivering innovative solutions to the automotive, industrial, and refinish markets. We are seeking a Color Scientist to join our team at the Global Innovation Center in Philadelphia, PA.

The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background and advanced proficiency in color science and its industrial applications. This role focuses on developing and supporting modeling tools and processes to optimize color and appearance quality across a broad range of product lines.

Note: Axalta is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a subject matter expert in color and appearance measurement and prediction within a coatings manufacturing and research environment.
• Provide input on system-level metrics and validation methods for evaluating color model performance.
• Recommend best practices and tools for basic color functionality (e.g., color correction, CIELab color difference application) in coatings development.
• Collaborate with software developers and fellow color scientists to implement algorithms for quantifying color and appearance.
• Conduct statistical analyses using databases and software tools to identify and troubleshoot issues affecting coating color matching. Use data patterns, color theory comparisons, and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies.
• Communicate complex color concepts to stakeholders across disciplines, acting as a bridge between color scientists, data engineers, and software developers.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Color Science, Physics, Optics, or a related field (highly qualified candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will also be considered).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience applying color theory in manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement in color matching processes.
• Experience in theoretical and empirical modeling, statistics, computer systems development, and process control.
• Proficiency in data analytics using programming/scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, R) and database querying tools (SQL, Tableau).
• Effective project management and execution capabilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively and influence effectively within a global and diverse organization.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to understand customer requirements and clearly convey technical recommendations.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Employee wellness programs and resources
• Opportunities to work on global, cutting-edge technology initiatives
• Inclusive and collaborative work environment

Our Company:

Axalta has remained at the forefront of the coatings industry by continually investing in innovative solutions. We engineer technologies that protect customers’ products – whether they are battling heat, light, corrosion, abrasion, moisture, or chemicals – and add dimension and beauty with colorful finishes. We have a vast and ever-evolving portfolio of brands primed to play an important part in everything from modernizing infrastructure around the world to enabling the next generation of electric and autonomous vehicles.  

Axalta operates its business in two segments: Performance Coatings and Mobility Coatings, which serve four end markets, including Refinish, Industrial, Light Vehicle and Commercial Vehicle, across North America, EMEA, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Our diverse global footprint allows us to deliver solutions in over 140+ countries and coat 30 million vehicles per year. We’ve recently set an exciting 2040 carbon neutrality goal, in addition to 10 other sustainability initiatives, and we take pride in working with our customers to optimize their businesses and achieve their goals.