PhD Formulation Chemist, Industrial Lubricants

CPS, Inc.; Virginia; On-site; USD 88,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K plan

Pension plan

Summertime work hours

3 weeks of vacation

All insurances

Job summary

CPS, Inc. invites a PhD-level Formulations Chemist to join its Industrial Lubricants team. The role focuses on high-performance chemistry, surface science and DOE-driven formulation of additives for lubricants.

You will work with a Sr. Chemist and a global team, with occasional UK travel, leading projects and presenting findings to stakeholders. Applicants should have a strong background in lubricant formulation, data analysis, and DOE.

Qualifications

• MS plus 5-7 years or PhD with 0-3 years of additives experience such as pigment dispersion, agricultural chemicals, lubricants, or oil-based formulation skills.
• Strong skills in structure–property relationship evaluation and data analysis.
• Advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering is required.
• Experience directly related to applicable lubricant product or product category is preferred.
• Experience with DOE and Stage Gate methods of product development is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Formulate, test, and lead development activities to meet project objectives.
• Evaluate data and interpret results; present findings to R&D and project leaders.
• Lead or supervise technical teammates on projects as needed.
• Ensure safety, ISO, and Quality System documentation and practices are followed.
• Represent the organization at technical conferences and industry activities.

Skills

Formulation

Tribology

DOE (Design of Experiments)

Data analysis

Communication/presentation

Education

Advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

PhD Formulations Chemist, Industrial Lubricants

This is a high-performance chemistry function role using your skills in surface science, formulation, DOE, or tribology to leverage the formulation and development of additives for Industrial Lubricants. Work in an independent capacity with one other Sr. Chemist next to you with a global team overseas! Occasionally travel to the UK too! Conducts complex and/or non-standard research, development, and/or performance testing activities to meet stated objectives of the respective SBU. May act as overall or technical project lead and direct the work of other technical team members assigned to the project. High level of communication and presentation skills are required. Often responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.

• Performs and/or manages formulation, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use and leadership of the Product Development Process. Designs approach, test plans, and milestones to project completion.


• Evaluates and interprets data, performance, and deliverables. Provides recommendations to R&D and project leaders regarding results deliverables, progress and challenges. Identifies and eliminates hurdles to successful project completion. Conducts special projects as assigned.


• Participates in technical and/or project reviews and presents findings as appropriate. Engages with assigned teams and cross-functional stakeholders, such as business, process, marketing, etc...Assists in determining future direction.


• Complete complex analytical testing procedures, in-depth analysis and interpretation and provide a detailed and accurate test report to the customer in a timely manner. Evaluate all test / project data to ensure accuracy, completeness and reasonability of conclusions.


• Complete collation of data, final interpretation and written test reports. Consult with the customer as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective and ensure that project goals are being met.


• Lead or direct special research projects independently. Oversee technical activities and/or supervise technical team members assigned to the project.


• Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.


• Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.


• Represent the organization in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of the organization.


• Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc.

Salary

$88,000 - $95,000

Benefits

• Outstanding benefits! 401K, Pension plan, Summertime work hours, 3 weeks of vacation, all insurances!

Experience

• MS plus 5-7 years or PhD with 0-3 years of additives such as pigment dispersion, agricultural chemicals, lubricants, or oil-based formulation skills, preferably from automotive, but will look at Oil and Gas, drilling fluids, and any general lubricant, or coatings, pigment dispersion, ag chems, etc.


• Strong skills in Structure Property relationship evaluation, and data analysis.


• We can teach the Lubricant chemistry, find a passionate formulator with a great personality who is humble and able to ask questions, yet outgoing enough to put in front of customers.


• Thorough knowledge and understanding of applicable chemistry and/or engineering principles and application in a research and development environment typically acquired after at least 5 years with a Masters, or PhD 0-2 years of relevant experience


• Advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering


• Experience directly related to applicable lubricant product or product category


• Strong skills in DOE, Stage Gate methods of product development