Senior Formulation Chemist

Biophysical Society; Baytown (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the specialty lubricants industry is seeking a senior formulation scientist with extensive experience in developing lubricant formulations for various applications. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience and a strong background in chemistry and regulatory compliance. Responsibilities include project planning, testing, and collaboration with production teams to ensure high-quality product development, alongside active participation in research and innovation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience in lubricant formulation or R&D.
• Proven knowledge of tribology and additive interactions required.
• Experience with laboratory testing methods and formulation software.

Responsibilities

• Design and refine lubricant formulations for performance and compliance.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analyze results.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure successful scale-up and production.

Skills

Tribology

Base oil chemistry

Additive interactions

Laboratory testing methods (ASTM/ISO)

Formulation software

Data analysis

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Lab software tools

Formulation databases

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Formulation Development: Design, develop, and refine lubricant formulations to meet performance, regulatory, stability, and cost objectives for industrial and specialty applications.
  
• Project Planning & Execution:Define development timelines, project scope, and technical goals. Plan and execute experimental work according to project timelines.
  
• Testing & Analysis: Conduct laboratory testing on raw materials and finished products, including viscosity, oxidation, thermal stability, and tribological performance. Analyze results and iterate formulations as needed.
  
• Scale-Up & Production Support: Collaborate with production and quality teams to ensure successful scale-up and manufacturing of newly developed products.
  
• Regulatory & Industry Compliance:Ensure all formulations comply with ASTM, ISO, REACH, and other relevant regulations. Support documentation for SDS, regulatory submissions, and technical data sheets.
  
• Innovation & Research:Stay current with industry trends, scientific advances, and emerging technologies. Attend technical conferences (e.g., ASTM, STLE, NLGI) and apply new insights to product innovation.
  Supplier Collaboration: Work closely with raw material suppliers to validate and approve new chemical components and improve formulation performance.
  
• Documentation:Maintain accurate records of formulation procedures, testing protocols, results, and intellectual property data for patent filings and internal reference.
  
• Technical Support:Provide expert guidance and troubleshooting support to internal teams during production and product application.
  
• Compliance & Safety:Uphold Soltex's standards for safety, quality, and ethical conduct in all laboratory and production activities.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in lubricant formulation or R&D (preferably more for senior-level consideration).
• Proven knowledge of tribology, base oil chemistry, and additive interactions.
• Strong experience with laboratory testing methods (ASTM/ISO), formulation software, and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across functional departments.

Preferred:

• 15+ years of experience in lubricant formulation and commercialization.
• Background in synthetic and bio-based lubricants, emulsions, or water-based chemistries.
• Familiarity with metalworking fluids, greases, or industrial process oils.
• Knowledge of polymers, surfactants, and oil-soluble additives.
• Experience in product lifecycle management, including documentation and regulatory approval.

Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Comfortable with lab software tools and formulation databases.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.