Assistant Manager – R&D (Automotive Lubricants)

Antal International Network; Thane; On-site; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemicals company is looking for an Assistant Manager – R&D in Automotive Lubricants. The candidate will manage R&D operations, contribute to new product development, and ensure product quality. A Master’s degree and 6 years of experience in the lubricant field are essential. Excellent communication and technical skills are required for this role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years’ experience in the lubricant field.
• Thorough knowledge of Management Systems (TS16949, ISO 9001, ISO14001, OHSAS 18001) and quality tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the R&D team.
• Manage R&D activities for product development.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Sales, Marketing, and Operations.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Lubricant technology

Petro-chemistry

Digital tools proficiency

Education

Master’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Location: Chemicals / PetroChemical / Plastic / Rubber

Position: Assistant Manager – R&D (Automotive Lubricants)

Location: Ambernath, Thane, India

Reporting To: Chief Technology Officer

Key Responsibilities

• Act as R&D expert in automotive lubricants, leading daily operations of the R&D team.
• Contribute as a core team member in New Product Development projects for OEMs and the Automotive Aftermarket.
• Manage R&D activities for product development, localization, and continuous improvements.
• Oversee changes in Bill of Material (BOM) for automotive products.
• Ensure timely pre-production blending and batch adjustments.
• Approve and qualify new raw materials and deliveries related to automotive lubricants.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement new R&D test methods and equipment; coordinate procurement requirements.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Sales, Marketing, and Operations to establish project goals and priorities.
• Participate in technical supplier meetings.
• Work with EHS Manager to ensure MSDS, RoHS certificates, and formulation disclosures are available.
• Support Sales and Product Management in customer meetings and technical presentations.
• Provide technical training to subordinates, cross-functional teams, and external customers.
• Handle technical complaint management within the R&D team.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (PhD desirable).
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in the lubricant field.
• Strong background in petro-chemistry and lubricant technology.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Thorough knowledge of Management Systems (TS16949, ISO 9001, ISO14001, OHSAS 18001) and quality tools (APQP, MSA, PPAP, FMEA, 8D).
• Hands-on experience in automotive lubricant formulations and specifications.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; ability to leverage digital tools for productivity.