Scientist - Arkema Inc. : Job Details

JOB DIMENSIONS - General purpose: Spearhead advanced product development, raw material characterization, and specification refinement for cutting-edge asphalt emulsifiers, emulsion additives, asphalt additives, and related chemistries. - Hands on asphalt emulsion lab scale production and emulsion testing. - Hands on lab synthesis and scale up of products in collaboration with manufacturing. - Develop and enhance testing protocols for novel and complex chemistries. - Oversee downstream product testing and understand end use application. - Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams including Innovation group, Operations/Manufacturing/Quality/Assurance, Commercial Team, Marketing and Communications Team, Strategic Account Clients, Channel Partners, and other Arkema business units. - You will be responsible for ensuring the safety of laboratory operations, driving innovative problem-solving methodologies, and contributing to the growth and success of our organization. - This position demands a high level of technical expertise, effective communication skills, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of scientific inquiry. ACTIVITIES - Apply advanced chemistry knowledge to propose innovative solutions to product and market challenges, establishing structure-property relationships. - Develop test programs to achieve product performance targets relative to organic synthesis chemistries in asphalt emulsifiers, emulsion additives, asphalt additives, and related chemistries. - Evaluate and recommend raw materials and manufacturing options for new and refined product formulations. - Develop robust manufacturing and quality control protocols for products and raw materials, recommending changes as necessary. - Support plant manufacturing scale-up and on-going commercial production of products. - Execute development activities within Arkema Infrastructure team achieving product performance objectives and robustness plan, deliverable milestones, roll-out timing to maintain costs that aligns with business needs. - Files invention records to protect intellectual property while maintaining appropriate records. - Monitors technology in area of expertise both patents and published scientific literature. - Create and maintain standard lab procedures to ensure unwavering product quality. - Understand and operate a safe laboratory working environment maintaining necessary training, organization, inventory, and cleanliness. - Actively promote a culture of safety within the workgroup, demonstrating a personal commitment to safe laboratory practices. - Maintain and calibrate laboratory instrumentation and equipment. - Provide consistently clear and concise communication, in both written and verbal form, to internal and external customers. - Understand the strategic objectives of the group and contribute to achieving results that impact overall performance. - Network with peers across R&D, providing training and mentorship to colleagues in areas of expertise. - Demonstrate leadership potential on multifunctional teams and influence decision-makers both within the R&D group and with internal/external customers. - Operate as an individual contributor or team member, managing day-to-day lab operations with minimal supervision. - Document project work in internal technical reports and maintain accurate records of intellectual property. - Foster a collaborative product development environment and ensure compliance with industry specifications (AASHTO, ASTM, State DOTs). - Stay updated on evolving technologies and trends in asphalt preservation engineering and materials. - Other duties as assigned. SKILLS AND ABILITIES - Thorough knowledge of laboratory safety policies and procedures, chemical and physical hazards, and other precautions to promote an effective and safe workplace. - Thorough working knowledge of organic synthesis equipment and practices. - Thorough working knowledge of chemical testing equipment, maintenance, calibration, and material science applicable to asphalt pavement. - Strong ability to manage multiple projects. - Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex ideas to diverse audiences. - Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, along with a strong understanding of relevant regulations and ethical research conduct. - Demonstrated problem-solving ability and a track record of innovation in scientific inquiry. - Demonstrated computer proficiency including Microsoft Office Suite (intermediate to advanced). - The ability to build and maintain effective relationships with all levels of client, industry association, internal, partner supplier and vendor organizations. - Position requires limited travel in North America. QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED - PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related Scientific Discipline; or MS degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience. - A minimum of 3 years of experience in organic synthesis testing or related surfactant formulations. - Experience in laboratory and plant operational support is a plus. - Experience working in asphalt pavement industry is a plus.