Assistant Chemist
Date: Nov 12, 2025
Location: Fort Smith, AR, US
Company: Leggett & Platt
We, at Leggett & Platt Inc., are searching for an Assistant Chemist within our Peterson Chemical Group to help support our Bedding business. Did you know we have been revolutionizing the sleep industry since 1883? That’s right! In fact, we hold the original patent on a spiral steel coil bed spring, filed way back in 1885. Since then, we have been an industry leader in guaranteeing you get the best sleep possible. If you join our team, your work will ensure people across the world have a little more comfort in their lives.
Peterson Chemical Technology is leading the way in the science of sleep, developing cutting edge technology for the bedding and comfort industry, and in 2019, they joined the Leggett & Platt family. As an Assistant Chemist at Peterson, you will have the opportunity to do hands-on work with their Research and Development Team for products going to market. You will work together with a collaborative team of innovative scientists who value diversity of thought, teamwork, creativity, and integrity.
So, what will you be doing as an Assistant Chemist?
- Design and conduct experiments for lab preparations of flexible foams
- Physical and analytical testing of polyurethane foam and components
- Use standards-based methods to evaluate problems empirically and interpret findings
- Data procurement, recording, retention, and reporting
- Data analysis and report generation in Microsoft Office Programs
- Observe all safety procedures and policies
To be successful in this role, you’ll need:
- Bachelor of Science, preferably in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Physics
- Enthusiasm for on-the-job training around the basics of flexible foam chemistry
- Strong laboratory skills for working safely and effectively
- Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent communication skills
- Patience, determination, and a propensity for critical thinking and problem solving
Things we consider a plus:
- Basic understanding of polymer chemistry
- Comfortable with data analysis and report generation in Microsoft Excel
- 2 years of relevant experience in a science field
- Familiarity with common lab equipment
- Attention to detail, accuracy, organization, and thoroughness
What to Do Next
Now that you’ve had a chance to learn more about us, what are you waiting for! Apply today and allow us the opportunity to learn more about you and the value you can bring to our team. Once you apply, be sure to create a profile, and sign up for job alerts, so you can be the first to know when new opportunities become available.
Our Values
Our values speak to our shared beliefs and describe how we approach working together.
- Put People First reflects our commitment to safety and care of each other, learning and development, and creating an inclusive environment of mutual respect, empathy and belonging.
- Do the Right Thing focuses us on acting with honesty and integrity, delivering the results the right way, taking pride in our work, and speaking the truth – good or bad.
- Do Great Work…Together occurs when we engage without hierarchy, collaborate as a team, embrace challenges, and work for the good of all of us.
- Take Ownership and Raise the Bar demonstrates our responsibility to add value and make a difference, challenge the status quo and biases to make things better, foster innovative and creative solutions to drive impact, and explore new perspectives and embrace change.
We welcome and encourage applications if you meet the minimum qualifications. Even if you do not meet the preferred qualifications, we’d love the opportunity to consider you.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Veteran/Disability Employer
For more information about how we handle your personal data in connection with our recruiting processes, please refer to the Recruiting Privacy Notice on the “Privacy Notice” tab located at http://privacy.leggett.com
Nearest Major Market: Fort Smith
Job Segment:
Chemical Research, R&D Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Scientific, Coating, Engineering, Manufacturing