Engine Oils R&D Lead — Drive Innovation

NewMarket; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 87,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with company match

Pension plan (company funded)

Paid vacation

Short/Long-term disability

Life Insurance

Identity Theft insurance

Job summary

Afton Chemical Corporation, part of NewMarket, is seeking a senior R&D leader to guide complex HDD research within the EO Applied Research team. You will lead development and testing efforts, act as project lead, and coordinate cross-functional teams to achieve objectives.

Strong communication and data interpretation skills are required; a PhD is preferred and 5+ years of relevant experience in R&D is expected. This role emphasizes safety, documentation, and industry engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Advanced degree in Chemistry or Mechanical/Chemical Engineering.
• Expert level knowledge and understanding of chemistry/engineering principles with at least 5 years in R&D.
• PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the technology roadmap for HDD product development.
• Collaborate with development teams to define, prioritize, and execute roadmap initiatives.
• Lead multiple concurrent R&D projects from concept to completion with timelines and risk mitigation.
• Evaluate bench and engine testing data; communicate findings and value to leadership.
• Ensure documentation and safety/compliance with Quality System requirements.
• Represent the company at technical conferences and in industry activities.

Skills

Decision Making

Business Insight

Analysis and Problem Solving

Communication

Coaching

Managing Performance

Collaboration and Networking

Project Management

Innovation

Dealing with Uncertainty

Safety Practices

Education

Bachelor's or Advanced degree in Chemistry or Mechanical/Chemical Engineering

5+ years of relevant experience

PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (preferred)

Job description

Afton Chemical Corporation, part of NewMarket, is seeking a senior R&D leader to guide complex HDD research within the EO Applied Research team. You will lead development and testing efforts, act as project lead, and coordinate cross-functional teams to achieve objectives.

Strong communication and data interpretation skills are required; a PhD is preferred and 5+ years of relevant experience in R&D is expected. This role emphasizes safety, documentation, and industry engagement.