Sr. Center of Innovation Chemist

About Us

At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of industrial process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial and manufacturing companies from aerospace and automotive to primary metal and energy. Today, we have a global presence, with our corporate headquarters located in Conshohocken, PA. Quaker Houghton is a global publicly traded company with a unique collaborative culture that supports career growth for its colleagues and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs.

Job Summary

PhD in Organic Chemistry or Engineering, and 2-5 years of experience in polymerization or silicon organic reaction synthesis. Autonomously and independently manage and execute multi-disciplinary research projects that result in the development of new product principles, new technology, or a new understanding of Quaker Houghton’s core technology. Provide guidance and oversight to junior level Chemists and Technicians.

Job Responsibilities/Activities

• Address complex problems by independently developing and improving chemical products used in a variety of manufacturing and mechanical systems to enhance processes, safety and quality in order to meet customer needs and provide solutions to application problems. Take pricing, timing and priority setting into consideration.
• Refine knowledge and keep up to date on developments in multiple fields of specialty. Serve as a technical expert and consultant in support of the R&D community. Support of D labs in complex matters when needed.
• Develop and maintain a detailed knowledge of customer processes to enable the continued development of value-added technology.
• Develop an in-depth knowledge of the performance attributes of competitive products and, as necessary, lead programs to uncover the key attributes that contribute to competitors state of the art technology in order to fill technology gaps or develop advantaged technology.
• When relevant, investigate the synthesis or utilization of new chemical compounds that lead to the enhancement of process performance of Quaker Houghton products. An in-depth knowledge of chemical structure, functionality and modes of physical and chemical performance would be applied to these activities.
• When relevant, develop new and innovative tests that enhance the ability to analyze the performance, physical or chemical properties of Quaker Houghton products, customer products or raw materials. Evaluate and recommend purchasing of new equipment. Ensure and report on the statistical significance of all data.
• Manage the data collection, knowledge capture and communication for research projects. Report results in a clear and concise manner to enhance technical exchange. Provide legal and archival documentation for patent applications.
• Maintain equipment glassware and workspace in order to keep them clean and well-functioning. Properly dispose of all laboratory waste. Participate in ensuring good management of laboratory equipment and storage spaces for chemicals and raw materials. Comply with housekeeping rules.
• Ensure that all equipment and machines in your area of control are managed with regards to safety, maintenance, calibration, and availability.
• Perform project work in cooperation with a variety of internal and external contacts. Lead internal projects as needed.

Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality responsibilities:

Comply with the applicable regulations and standards regarding quality, safety, environmental as well as the occupational health standards in order to minimize risks in these areas and to create opportunities and chances for improvement.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job the employee may be exposed to fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals. The employee is occasionally exposed to work near moving mechanical parts. The associate must be able to safely work in a variety of potentially hazardous