POSITION SUMMARY:
The R&D Chemist works in the laboratory and reports to the R&D Manager for Industrial Fluids and Lubricants (IFL). This position will be responsible for formulating and conducting standard laboratory and applications testing to assist in the development of specialty additives for the IFL industry. This role will also provide a limited amount of production support by assisting with process-related challenges, raw material qualifications, and evaluating product quality when needed.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
· Perform standard laboratory and application testing in accordance with established procedures and protocols
· Make detailed observations during lab testing and to accurately record the data and observations in a laboratory digital notebook and in spreadsheets
· Manage laboratory workflow for multiple, concurrent development and applications projects
· Communicate results, observations, and work progress to supervisor
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve product development and process-related challenges, supporting successful project outcome
· Support manufacturing with the new product scale-ups
· Support procurement with identifying and evaluating new and alternate raw materials
· Interact with customers by effectively communicating project updates and presenting project results
· Develop the knowledge and experience necessary to deliver technical presentations, participate in customer site visits, and attend trade shows
· Collaborate with supervisor, commercial leaders, and sales to understand market needs and support new product development initiatives s as required
· Sadely handle and work with low to moderately hazardous chemicals using appropriate safety procedures and practices
· Ability to travel to the Bloomfield, NJ location for training
QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:
· Minimum bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related scientific field with 5+ years relevant experience working as a chemist in an R&D environment or related applications area
· Experience working with industrial fluids and lubricants is desirable but not required
· Formulation experience is desired but not required
· Experience interacting with customers and presenting project results is desired but not required
· Experience with troubleshooting activities, experimental findings, and corrective actions in accordance with laboratory, manufacturing and regulatory requirements
· Experience operating analytical equipment, such as GPC, GC, FTIR, and other instruments and interoperating the data.
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
· Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively to team objectives
· Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to interact effectively and positively with supervisor, peers, and across functions
· Excellent organizational and time management skills with ability to prioritize multiple work deadlines
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to work an eight (8) hour shift in a lab environment. Must have the ability to stand for long periods of time at a bench performing tasks. Must be able to lift objects that are less than or equal to 30 lbs. Will be required to use computer daily to effectively complete job functions for entire shift.
Work Environment: Lab environment
FLSA Status: Salary/Exempt
Travel Potential: 5%