Jobs and Careers

Senior Research Chemist

Kingwood, TX, US, 77339, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 27 May 2026

About the role

You may not realize it, but you’ve likely used a product today made possible by the plastics and chemicals manufactured by Chevron Phillips Chemical. From medical supplies and electronics to food packaging and cosmetics, we create the building blocks for more than 70,000 consumer and industrial products.

Even as a global company with 5,000 employees, we maintain a “small company feel.” Our commitment to foster a culture of belonging ensures that regardless of your background or experience, your voice is valued and heard, empowering you to make a meaningful impact and grow both personally and professionally. Ask any Chevron Phillips Chemical employee what they like best about their job, and universally, the answer is “the people I work with!” We value work-life balance, and love to see our employees thrive both professionally and personally. There has never been a better time to work for Chevron Phillips Chemical. If you’re ready to grow with us and become part of our vision of being the premier Chemical Company, apply today!

Introduction

Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem) is seeking a Senior Research Chemist to join our team at the Research and Technology organization located in Kingwood, Texas.

The Analytical Research Chemist will conduct routine and non-routine testing related to olefins, petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, and polymers while designing and executing independent research projects that support the company’s global business needs. This role partners closely with chemists, engineers, and analytical personnel to provide technical support for manufacturing, application development, and research groups; support scale-up programs and plant operations; troubleshoot and maintain laboratory instrumentation; and ensure safe, reliable laboratory operations. The successful candidate will be a detail-oriented team player with strong written and verbal communication skills, able to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders, participate actively in safety programs, and perform work in compliance with required personal protective equipment and physical job requirements.

Responsibilities

Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental and health regulations, and procedures.
Influence development of local Operational Excellence policies and act as expert for review of safe work practices.
Lead troubleshooting efforts that have significant impact on safe and reliable operation of laboratories.
Demonstrate leadership in one or more areas of technical expertise, including areas beyond direct work group, and strongly influences planning and execution of R&D projects.
Initiate, design, develop, and support broad research projects requiring direct interaction with internal or external customers that deliver credible solutions.
Conduct analytical testing in support of CPChem business lines and production facilities to ensure that accurate and timely results are provided.
Deliver high quality and impactful results to customers in R&T, manufacturing, regulatory, and commercial entities.
Performing routine calibration, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation.
Resolve challenging and/or recurring problems by implementing fundamental solutions.
Mentor one or more junior exempt employees in technology, monitoring tools, problem solving and troubleshooting.
Prepare written reports, oral presentations and external publications summarizing experimental studies and/or R&D programs.

Required Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Chemistry
At least 7 years of experience
Specific expertise in one of the following core areas: x-ray spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, elemental analysis, or polymer science.
Must have clearly demonstrated the ability to develop and lead independent research projects and possess strong interpersonal skills.