Sr. R&D Chemist - Engine Oils

NewMarket; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Research and Development Specialist, where you'll engage in innovative projects that shape the future of lubricant and fuel additives. This role offers the chance to work on complex projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and make impactful contributions to the industry. With a focus on safety and quality, you'll be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions, ensuring that your work meets high standards of excellence. If you're passionate about chemistry and eager to drive advancements in a dynamic environment, this is the opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science field is required.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in R&D is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Conduct formulation, synthesis, and testing to meet project objectives.
• Provide technical recommendations based on data evaluation.

Skills

Decision Making

Business Insight

Analysis and Problem Solving

Communication

Managing Performance

Collaboration and Networking

Project Management

Innovation

Dealing with Uncertainty

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Advanced degree in Chemistry, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Overview

About Us

Afton Chemical Corporation is part of the NewMarket Corporation (NYSE: NEU) family of companies, and is one of the largest global suppliers of lubricant additives and offers a broad line of fuel additives worldwide.

Conducts research, development, and/or performance testing activities for the respective SBU. Performs assigned projects under the supervision of a senior R&D team member or leader though may conduct independent studies, manage projects, and work on large/complex projects. High level of communication and presentation skill required. Often responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.

Responsibilities

• Performs formulation, synthesis, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use of the Afton Product Development Process.
• Evaluation and preliminary interpretation of data. Provides technical recommendations to senior R&D team member or leader regarding results, chemistry/component viability and necessary characterizations. Completes 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.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date lab notebooks in accordance with established procedures. Ensure objectivity and accuracy in reporting and recording data. May direct/supervise the activities of other team members as appropriate.
• Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
• 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.
• 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 Afton in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain an adequate level of technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of Afton.
• Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc.

Qualifications

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE MINIMUMS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (or other relevant science field)
• 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 of relevant experience

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:

• Advanced degree in Chemistry, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering
• Experience directly related to applicable product or product category

For NewMarket or Afton employees, an appropriate combination of experiences that will support the required skill base may replace one or more of the specific experience requirements above.

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Decision Making - Decision making in a timely manner based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment; sometimes with incomplete information, under tight deadlines and pressure; while based upon appropriate risk and authority.
• Business Insight - The understanding of the basis for our business model and how that is realized in the market. The understanding of how business and operations are intimately linked. The ability to use information, practices & trends, affecting the business to engage and drive new strategies and tactics work in the marketplace.
• Analysis and Problem Solving - Solves difficult problems with effective solutions; asks good questions and questions all likely sources for answers; can solve complex problems and recognize complex patterns; utilizing all appropriate tools to reach a robust answer.
• Communication - The ability to communicate information clearly and effectively in an engaging and convincing manner.
• Managing Performance - Possessing the drive and focus to achieve challenging goals.
• Collaboration and Networking - The ability to work in and across Afton’s organizational matrix to achieve business objectives, via engaging interactions and influencing without authority.
• Project Management - The ability to manage tasks and activities and achieve their completion within the agreed framework, across regional and organizational boundaries.
• Innovation - The openness to new ideas and the ability to generate breakthrough solutions. Can develop, seek out, critically assess and implement new and value adding concepts.
• Dealing with Uncertainty - Can effectively cope with change; can shift gears comfortably; can decide and act without having the total picture; isn’t upset when things are up in the air; doesn’t have to finish things before moving on; can comfortably handle risk and