Senior Chemist – Metalworking Fluid; BASF-Chemetall

Senior Chemist – Metalworking Fluid (ECT-Chemetall)

We are looking for a Senior Chemist – Metalworking Fluids (MWFs) to join our Technical Service team in New Providence, NJ. This role involves product development, product modifications/adaptations, performance testing, customer support, and global collaboration to help develop and support MWFs for local and global markets. The individual will report to the Global Technology Lead, MWF.

• Product Development:
  Formulate and optimize metalworking fluids including semi-synthetics, synthetics, soluble oils and straight oils.
• Evaluate product performance through lab and field testing (e.g., corrosion protection, lubricity, foam control, microbial resistance).
• Identify opportunities for sustainability, cost reduction and performance enhancement.
• Technical Support:
  Provide advanced technical support to customers, sales teams, and manufacturing operations.
• Analyze field samples and performance data to recommend solutions and improvements.
• Provide support for product trials and troubleshooting at customer sites when needed.
• Project Management:
  Lead R&D projects from concept through commercialization, managing timelines and communication throughout the project milestones.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including marketing, regulatory, and operations both locally and globally.
• Mentor junior chemists and contribute to team development and knowledge sharing.
• Documentation & Compliance:
  Prepare technical reports, presentations and any technical documentation related to the position and data that has been gathered.
• Ensure formulations meet performance and regulatory requirements as defined by the project targets.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement:
  Stay current with industry trends, raw material innovations and emerging technologies.
• Identify opportunities for sustainability and performance enhancements.
• Global
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with international colleagues in R&D, marketing, and regulatory teams to align product strategies and share technical insights.
• Participate in global technical forums and cross-regional projects to ensure consistency and leverage best practices.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5–8 years of experience in metalworking fluid formulation and support.
• Strong knowledge of base oils, emulsifiers and additives used in MWFs.
• Familiarity with ASTM, DIN, and other MWF relevant test methods.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication and project management skills.
• Tribology experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of industrial machining processes and equipment is preferred.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques such as FTIR, GC‑MS, ICP, and HPLC.
• Ability to travel occasionally for customer visits and field support.

• Flexible work arrangements whenever possible
• Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options
• Well‑being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members
• Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more)
• Back‑up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages
• Mentoring and career development opportunities that allow you to share, learn, and thrive
• Matching gifts program that allows you to deepen the impact of your contributions to qualified charities.
• Employee crisis support for when the unexpected happens
• Access to our BASF wine cellar, employee discounts, and much more!

Competitive Pay Range: $110,000 – $125,000. Actual pay will be determined based on education, certifications, experience, and other job‑related factors permitted by law.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis.