UL Solutions
Lead Scientist - Sustainability at UL Solutions
Purpose: The Lead Scientist advances UL’s sustainability objectives by conducting self-directed research, analysis, and early-stage development of sustainability services across key market sectors. This role develops and refines sustainability standards, metrics, and protocols, providing technical expertise in areas such as life cycle assessment (LCA), product carbon footprinting, resource efficiency, and circularity. The Lead Scientist identifies and pilots innovative methodologies and tools to enhance UL’s sustainability science capabilities, collaborates across internal teams, and communicates technical insights to stakeholders. The role also engages with external organizations to maintain UL’s thought leadership in sustainability science and contributes to collaborative projects that reinforce UL’s reputation and impact.
Responsibilities
Research and analysis: Design and execute applied research projects to assess and improve sustainability practices at product and systems levels. Apply quantitative methods and analytical tools to evaluate environmental and social impacts. Standards and framework development: Support the development and refinement of sustainability-related standards, metrics, and protocols. Conduct literature reviews, benchmark best practices, and contribute to technical criteria that define credible sustainability performance. Technical expertise and communication: Provide subject matter expertise in domains such as LCA, product carbon footprinting, recyclability, circular economy, sustainable materials, or related methodologies. Translate technical findings into actionable insights for internal and external stakeholders. Prepare reports, white papers, and presentations to support client projects, standards development, and thought leadership. Innovation and improvement: Identify opportunities to strengthen UL’s sustainability science capabilities. Develop and pilot new methods, tools, or approaches that address emerging industry needs and regulatory requirements. Collaboration across teams: Work closely with colleagues across sustainability services, certification, engineering, testing, and external partnerships. Share knowledge and contribute to joint projects that deliver business and societal impact. External engagement: Represent UL externally through technical working groups and standards committees related to sustainability topics. Build relationships with external organizations (standards bodies, industry consortia, academic institutions, and NGOs) to stay current on sustainability science trends, contribute to collaborative projects, and enhance UL’s thought leadership. Qualifications / Knowledge / Skills
Minimum B.S. degree from an accredited university; advanced degree preferred (Master’s or Ph.D.) in engineering, physical sciences, sustainability, environmental science, industrial ecology, or related field. 3–6 years of relevant professional experience in connecting sustainability innovation to core business value. Demonstrated expertise in at least one core sustainability science area (e.g., Life Cycle Assessment, carbon accounting, circular economy, material health, sustainable design, etc.). Awareness of cross-sector collaborations relevant to environmental sustainability challenges. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in sustainability assessment tools, databases, and/or data analysis software. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences. Strong organizational and project management skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications. Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment. Demonstrated curiosity, innovation, and commitment to continuous improvement. What we offer
Total Rewards: The estimated salary range for this position is $123,900-165,200 USD and is based on multiple factors including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of base salary. Benefits include health (medical, dental, vision), wellness benefits (mental and financial health), and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with location. In the US, full-time employees also receive paid time off including vacation, holidays, floating holidays, and sick time off. Learn more
To learn more about us and the work we do, visit our company page at www.UL.com About Us
UL Solutions is a global leader in applied safety science, transforming safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. We deliver testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings to support product innovation and growth. Our mission is to help customers innovate, launch new products and services, and navigate global markets and supply chains while growing sustainably and responsibly. We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into articles, started with AI assistance.
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Research and analysis: Design and execute applied research projects to assess and improve sustainability practices at product and systems levels. Apply quantitative methods and analytical tools to evaluate environmental and social impacts. Standards and framework development: Support the development and refinement of sustainability-related standards, metrics, and protocols. Conduct literature reviews, benchmark best practices, and contribute to technical criteria that define credible sustainability performance. Technical expertise and communication: Provide subject matter expertise in domains such as LCA, product carbon footprinting, recyclability, circular economy, sustainable materials, or related methodologies. Translate technical findings into actionable insights for internal and external stakeholders. Prepare reports, white papers, and presentations to support client projects, standards development, and thought leadership. Innovation and improvement: Identify opportunities to strengthen UL’s sustainability science capabilities. Develop and pilot new methods, tools, or approaches that address emerging industry needs and regulatory requirements. Collaboration across teams: Work closely with colleagues across sustainability services, certification, engineering, testing, and external partnerships. Share knowledge and contribute to joint projects that deliver business and societal impact. External engagement: Represent UL externally through technical working groups and standards committees related to sustainability topics. Build relationships with external organizations (standards bodies, industry consortia, academic institutions, and NGOs) to stay current on sustainability science trends, contribute to collaborative projects, and enhance UL’s thought leadership. Qualifications / Knowledge / Skills
Minimum B.S. degree from an accredited university; advanced degree preferred (Master’s or Ph.D.) in engineering, physical sciences, sustainability, environmental science, industrial ecology, or related field. 3–6 years of relevant professional experience in connecting sustainability innovation to core business value. Demonstrated expertise in at least one core sustainability science area (e.g., Life Cycle Assessment, carbon accounting, circular economy, material health, sustainable design, etc.). Awareness of cross-sector collaborations relevant to environmental sustainability challenges. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in sustainability assessment tools, databases, and/or data analysis software. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences. Strong organizational and project management skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications. Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment. Demonstrated curiosity, innovation, and commitment to continuous improvement. What we offer
Total Rewards: The estimated salary range for this position is $123,900-165,200 USD and is based on multiple factors including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 20% of base salary. Benefits include health (medical, dental, vision), wellness benefits (mental and financial health), and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with location. In the US, full-time employees also receive paid time off including vacation, holidays, floating holidays, and sick time off. Learn more
To learn more about us and the work we do, visit our company page at www.UL.com About Us
UL Solutions is a global leader in applied safety science, transforming safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. We deliver testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings to support product innovation and growth. Our mission is to help customers innovate, launch new products and services, and navigate global markets and supply chains while growing sustainably and responsibly. We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into articles, started with AI assistance.
#J-18808-Ljbffr