Development Chemist III

An educational platform on tribology — the science of friction, wear and lubrication

Who is it for

Engineers, researchers, students and industry professionals

At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of chemical specialties, process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial companies and to this day our experience and expertise show in the actions and dedication of our Associates worldwide. 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 associates and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs.

Quaker Houghton is seeking a Development Chemist III to work in our Metalworking Fluid Development Laboratory in Conshohocken, PA. The laboratory supports multiple metalworking fluid product lines including soluble oils, semi-synthetics, and full synthetics. An individual in this role will be responsible for conducting product development, research projects, and product support for Quaker Houghton metalworking fluids. This will require working closely with commercial associates, other RD&E teams, customers, and external partners to design new products and execute tests both in the laboratory and in the field.

We are seeking experienced candidates who are highly motivated, have strong collaboration skills, are creative problem solvers, and communicate effectively.

• Use knowledge of colloid chemistry, tribology, and testing techniques to formulate metalworking fluids that will meet customer needs and provide solutions to application problems.
• Work independently with minimal guidance from the laboratory manager.
• Act as a mentor to junior development chemists.
• Maintain a clear and orderly record all observations and data.
• Write detailed reports summarizing product development efforts, laboratory testing, and troubleshooting.
• Perform customer requested product analysis and testing to answer questions and address problems at commercial accounts.
• Provide legal and archival documentation for patent applications.
• Comply with safety regulations and lab procedures.
• Provide technical service and knowledge to customers and sales associates based upon the chemist’s current level of expertise. Visit customers when required.
• Provide assistance to Manufacturing to improve the quality and efficiency of the manufacturing process. Assist Manufacturing and the Quality Assurance lab in solving quality and production problems.
• Comply with safety regulations and make recommendations towards the improvement of safety and environmental concerns.
• Follow all ISO quality and environmental standards as provided in the various procedural manuals. Ensure that all laboratory equipment is calibrated and functioning properly.
• This position requires a Bachelor Degree in Chemistry or equivalent with at least 7 years of experience, a Master’s Degree in Chemistry or equivalent with at least 5 years of experience, or a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry or equivalent with at least 3 years of experience.
• Knowledge of colloid chemistry, surfactants, and tribology is required.
• Experience with the formulation of metalworking fluids and field support of machining and grinding operations is highly desired.
• Understanding of applied statistics and experimental design is not required, but highly desired.
• Must have the ability to operate in a fast-paced environment, to work on different projects at the same time, and to think analytically.
• Must have good prioritization and communication skills (oral and writing).
• Ability…