Product Development Chemist II

Product Development Chemist II

This role develops and leads projects to identify and implement new technologies that enable differentiated performance claims for lubricant, coolant, and grease products. Promotes and contributes to a zero-incident safety culture through continuous improvement of laboratory methods and procedures, leading by example in adherence to PPE requirements, safety protocols, and chemical hygiene plans. Manages and mentors scientists and engineers, fostering technical excellence and professional development.

Essential duties and responsibilities include troubleshooting lab equipment in area of expertise, instructing on JDE, raw material spec database; recommending improvements to process and methodologies; cross-functional training in supply chain, blending, marketing and distribution. May be called on to mentor chemist I. Writes and discusses research results and reports; presents data and findings to customers relative to new product lines or support of existing product lines. Actively builds "internal equity"; cross-functional with all internal departments and communicates openly/effectively. Participates in cross-functional internal teams, communicates effectively and demonstrates a collaborative, positive attitude.

Education: Requires a B.S./B.A. degree with emphasis in sciences, chemistry preferred. Experience and/or training: 3-10 years of chemistry experience. Advanced knowledge of key product areas and 1-2 product line areas and demonstrated ability to run and troubleshoot on selected tests lab equipment. Proven to be effective in DOE, data interpretation, and time management. Active member in applicable industry organization. Intermediate knowledge level of lubricant fundamentals, base oils, additives, lubricant testing, QA, used oil analysis and condition monitoring or applicable discipline. Key contributor to technology lab and internal/external customers; demonstrated ability to advance research with some input from technical specialist or chemist III. Has been involved in cross functional projects (outside of technology/lab) and/or continuous improvement projects. Can periodically travel to other Ascentek locations and customer locations and act as a technical resource.

Physical and mental demands include sitting, standing, walking, talking, hearing, and using hands to finger, handle or touch objects, tools or controls. Bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting, carrying and grasping objects. Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 45 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close/far vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Protective clothing required (for laboratory and production areas): laboratory coat or safety vest, safety glasses, gloves, long pants and closed-toed shoes.

Working environment is performed in a laboratory, general office, and production environment. Most areas are climate controlled dry, indoor areas. Noise level is usually moderate, but the production facility may have an increased noise level. There is exposure to solvents, acids, corrosives, and other chemicals in the laboratory and production areas. There may be additional exposure to fumes, vapors and mists.