Sr R&D Engineer

Overview

ABOUT US: Afton Chemical Corporation is part of the New Market 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.

Conducts complex and non-standard research, development, and performance testing to achieve the objectives of the Technology Development team. Applies scientific theory and mechanistic understanding to drive technical innovation and problem solving. May serve as overall or technical project lead, directing the work of other technical team members. Requires a high level of written and verbal communication, including the ability to present technical information effectively.

Typically manages multiple projects of varying scope and complexity concurrently.

• Performs and/or manages formulation, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use and leadership of the Afton Product Development Process. Designs approach, test plans, and milestones to project completion.
• Evaluates and interprets data, performance, and deliverables. Provides recommendations to R&D and project leaders regarding results, deliverables, progress and challenges. Identifies and eliminates hurdles to successful project completion. Conducts special projects as assigned.
• Participates in technical and/or project reviews and presents findings as appropriate. Engages with assigned teams and cross-functional stakeholders, such as business, process, marketing, etc. Assists in determining future direction.
• Complete complex analytical testing procedures, in-depth analysis and interpretation and provide a detailed and accurate test report to the customer in a timely manner. Evaluate all test/project data to ensure accuracy, completeness and reasonability of conclusions.
• Complete collation of data, final interpretation and written test reports. Consult with the customer as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective and ensure that project goals are being met.
• Lead or direct special research projects independently. Oversee technical activities and/or supervise technical team members assigned to the project.
• Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
• Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.
• Represent Afton in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of Afton.
• Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc

• Bachelors or Advanced degree in Chemistry, Physics, or Mechanical / Chemical Engineering
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of applicable interfacial science and/or engineering principles and application in a research and development environment typically acquired after More than 5 years of relevant experience

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry or Mechanical/Chemical Engineering
• Expertise in micelles/colloids, soft matter, surfactants, interfacial performance, non-covalent interactions, emulsions, foam, particle characterization, or similar areas
• Strong utilization of theory and mechanism to drive inquiry and find applicable solutions
• Ability to build structure activity relations in highly complex chemical/surfactant mixtures
• Ability to construct and troubleshoot MATLAB code for image analysis
• Strong understanding of interfacial measurements including pendant drop tensiometer, dispersion rheology, and Langmuir trough monolayer characterization

For New Market 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.

• 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…