Process Development Scientist: Oleochemical Synthesis

Airswift; Mapleton (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Airswift is seeking a Process Development Scientist to lead hands‑on oleochemical synthesis, optimize processes, and support new product introductions at the Mapleton Plant. You will analyze R&D and production data, guide troubleshooting, and ensure safe operations in a busy industrial laboratory environment.

The role requires strong communication, cross‑regional collaboration, and project management skills, with experience handling pressurised equipment and 100mL–4L reaction scales.

Qualifications

• MS, BS, or equivalent qualification in Chemistry or a related field.
• At least five years of experience for candidates with an MS or BS in Chemistry or a related field.
• Industrial synthesis and/or process optimisation experience.
• Experience analysing R&D and production data and trends to identify problems and provide technical guidance.
• Experience supporting new product introduction and chemistry‑based production troubleshooting in a plant or industrial laboratory setting.
• Hands‑on oleochemical synthesis on reaction scales from 100mL to 4L.
• Ability to work with pressurised equipment.
• Interpretation of analytical results provided by a QC laboratory.
• Strong attention to safety and safe work practices in an industrial chemical laboratory, including work with hazardous substances.
• Administrative capability including project management, reporting, safety activities, training participation, meetings, and written updates.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to work within cross‑regional and cross‑cultural teams.
• Leadership‑based collaboration, including data interpretation, coaching, and technical support to other team members.
• Proficiency in Microsoft365 for data analysis, documentation, reporting, and presentation.
• Strong and proactive verbal communication skills.

Skills

Oleochemical synthesis

Pressurised equipment

Data interpretation

Safety practices

Project management

Reporting/writing

Cross-functional collaboration

Microsoft365

Communication skills

Education

MS in Chemistry

BS in Chemistry

Job description

Airswift is seeking a Process Development Scientist to lead hands‑on oleochemical synthesis, optimize processes, and support new product introductions at the Mapleton Plant. You will analyze R&D and production data, guide troubleshooting, and ensure safe operations in a busy industrial laboratory environment.

The role requires strong communication, cross‑regional collaboration, and project management skills, with experience handling pressurised equipment and 100mL–4L reaction scales.