Research Associate, Research Scientist

Overview

Research Associate. We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and accomplished professional with a strong passion for research-driven product innovation to join our Lubrication Research and Development team. The successful candidate will initiate and lead product and process development activities—from laboratory-scale experimentation through pilot-scale validation to commercial trials and full-scale manufacturing. This role requires exceptional communication and collaboration skills to coordinate with cross-functional teams and business stakeholders, ensuring timely and successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will proactively identify growth opportunities across the lubricant industry and drive concepts from inception to implementation. Technical contributions will span engine oils, driveline fluids, gear oils, hydraulic systems, and fuels—with a primary emphasis on grease formulation and manufacturing processes.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, or basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

NCH Corporation is a privately held, family-owned, global business headquartered in Irving, Texas, near Dallas. We have more than 6,500 employees, offices and facilities on six continents, and clients in more than 48 countries. We clean and conserve water, save energy, and deliver best-in-class maintenance solutions, with a focus on industrial and commercial businesses.

• Employee-centric environment (regular corporate activities, personal relationships, small teams)
• Family-first attitude (work-life balance support, flexible hours)
• Approachable leadership (collaboration with top leaders, open-door policy)
• Growth-oriented mindset (autonomy, creative freedom to explore new ideas)
• Paid vacation and holiday leave
• Wellness initiatives (on-site fitness facility and cafeteria, treadmill conference room, planned activities)
• Community involvement (volunteering, fundraisers, charity events, school sponsor ships and donations)
• Employee recognition programs (appreciation week, awards and ceremonies)
• Personal and professional development and growth
• Tuition reimbursement
• Financial wellness (retirement options, 401K match, employee credit union)
• Benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life, long and short-term disability)

• Core Responsibilities: Lead the development of innovative product solutions that address both emerging and existing business needs, delivering value to internal stakeholders and external customers.
• Work Environment: This is a hands-on, laboratory-based position requiring on-site presence. Responsibilities include grease formulation and blending, as well as the exploration of novel approaches to enhance lubricant performance and resolve field-related challenges.
• Innovation & Optimization: Drive applied research initiatives focused on product innovation and manufacturing process optimization to improve efficiency, quality, and scalability.
• Intellectual Property Development: Collaborate with patent attorneys and research colleagues to identify, document, and secure intellectual property rights for breakthrough technologies.
• Systems & Documentation: Develop proficiency in internal systems and maintain rigorous documentation standards. Ensure accurate, timely recordkeeping and prepare comprehensive interim and final reports for projects and programs.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrate professionalism and technical acumen in interactions with external clients, internal business units, and commercial teams. Provide support to sales and business development efforts as needed.
• Collaborative Research: Initiate, cultivate, and contribute to joint research programs with academic institutions, research organizations, and strategic business partners.

• Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering is required; an advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) is preferred but not mandatory.…