PhD Formulation Chemist, Industrial Lubricants

Cps4jobs; Virginia; On-site; USD 88,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K

Pension plan

Vacation: 3 weeks

Health insurance

Job summary

CPS Inc. is seeking a PhD Formulations Chemist for Industrial Lubricants in Virginia. You will conduct advanced research in surface science, formulation, DOE, and tribology to develop additives for industrial lubricants, leading projects and teaming with an overseas global team.

You may travel to the UK occasionally and supervise technical staff as needed. The role emphasizes independent work, project leadership, data interpretation, and reporting results to R&D and customers.

Qualifications

• MS with 5–7 years or PhD with 0–3 years in additives such as pigment dispersion, lubricants, or oil-based formulations.
• Strong skills in structure–property relationship evaluation and data analysis.
• Experience with DOE and Stage Gate product development methods.
• Ability to present findings at technical conferences or to customers.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and testing activities to meet project objectives.
• Direct technical projects and supervise team members as needed.
• Engage cross-functional stakeholders (business, process, marketing) and present findings.
• Prepare detailed test reports and consult with customers to review results.
• Promote safe lab practices and maintain ISO/Quality System documentation.
• Ensure documentation per Quality System and ISO requirements
• Represent the organization at technical conferences and industry events

Skills

DOE (Design of Experiments)

Data analysis

Formulation

Stage Gate methods

Data analysis

Project leadership

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Statistical software

Spectroscopy tools

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

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