Sr. R&D Chemist - Axle, Manual Transmission and Off-Road (AMO)

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.

Develop Axle, Manual Transmission and Off-Road (AMO) additive and finished fluid solutions to meet the technical requirements for key OEM and market general applications. Conducts research, development, and performance testing activities for the AMO product line under the direction of R&D leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical delivery of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), customer specific and market general additive and finished fluid development projects as directed. Engage and collaborate with customers and OEMs on these projects as needed.
• Design and execute formulation and testing activities to meet established project objectives. Manage projects effective via the Afton Product Development Process.
• Evaluate and interpret data from a broad range of applicable tests, from benchtop physical and chemical analyses to industry standard and bespoke component and system level rig tests. Provide technical recommendations to project team regarding performance, chemistry/component viability and other characterizations as necessary.
• Lead, facilitate and engage in technical and project reviews and present findings as appropriate. Work cohesively with cross-functional stakeholders, including Global Business, Process Development, Marketing, Customer Technical Service, Mechanical Testing, OEM Relationship Team, etc.
• Ensure objectivity and accuracy in reporting and recording data. May direct or supervise activities of other team members and lab technicians as appropriate.
• Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
• Assure documentation is maintained in compliance with ISO or Quality System related policies and procedures. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.
• Represent and advocate for Afton in technical conferences, industry groups meetings and other relevant industry activities.
• Demonstrate continuous growth in technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced scientific and industry related developments inside and outside of Afton.

Qualifications

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:

• Advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (or other relevant science field); PhD is strongly preferred.
• Experience directly related to applicable product or product category (additive and finished lubricant formulations).

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

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 uncertainty.
• Demonstrates acceptable statistical applications to assigned area
• Consistent demonstration of safe lab practices and procedures
• Able to travel as required with up to 10% domestic and/or international travel at times

Working at Afton

Who We Are - We're a diverse, global family of individuals, who share a passion for developing innovative solutions. We build our professional relationships on respect, integrity and a commitment to safety and quality. Just as these values apply to our professional relationships, they also apply to the way we feel about our neighbors and communities.

Our Work - At Afton, our innovative R&D programs lead to global growth. Our lubricant and fuel additives are among the most highly developed and widely used in the petroleum industry. Afton is a recognized and trusted supplier of driveline lubricant additives, engine oil additives, fuel additives and industrial lubricant additives.

Benefits / Compensation - We offer competitive compensation and benefit packages that reflect our commitment to our employees. Our employees are our most treasured asset and we have dedicated resources that allow us to reward our employees for their commitment on an ongoing basis - ensuring our compensation packages are competitive in the industry.

An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual's race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, status as a military veteran or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.