Exploratory Synthesis R&D Chemist II

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.

Position Summary:

Design, plan, and execute complex organic synthesis reactions to support research and development goals, with a focus on improving process efficiency, yield, and product quality.

Job Accountabilities:

• Design and Optimize Synthesis Routes:
• Develop and implement efficient synthetic routes for complex organic compounds.
• Scale-up and Process Development:
• Scale up small-scale reactions to large-scale production, ensuring process consistency, efficiency, and safety.

Quality Control and Assurance:

• Collaborate with the quality assurance lab to develop and implement robust analytical methods for monitoring product quality and purity.

Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving:

• Troubleshoot complex synthesis issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to improve process efficiency and product quality.

Purification Techniques:

• Develop and implement efficient purification techniques, including distillation, crystallization, chromatography, and extraction methods, to isolate and purify target compounds.

Characterization Techniques:

• Utilize characterization techniques such as NMR,MS, IR, and HPLC to identify and confirm the structure of synthesized compounds, ensuring high purity and quality.

Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:

• Work closely with R&D, manufacturing, and commercial teams to ensure seamless integration of new products and processes.

Documentation and Record Keeping:

• Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and synthetic routes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• 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.

Education/Experience:

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry and 3+ years of organic synthesis experience OR a master's degree in chemistry with an organic synthesis focus is required. Master’s degree preferred.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in organic synthesis, with a strong background in laboratory techniques, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopic methods.

What's in it for you:

• Competitive pay programs with excellent career growth trajectory
• Hybrid work environment in Conshohocken, PA
• Opportunities to see your efforts contribute toward the success of the business.
• Work for a global leader in the industrial process fluids industry

EEO STATEMENT: