Field Chemist

Lucas Oil Products is seeking highly qualified candidates for a Grease Process Chemist
This is a creative hands-on laboratory role bridging our Research and Development and Manufacturing Operations departments related to lubricating grease manufacturing and development. the approval and quality assurance of raw materials, finished greases, and packaged products;
* maintaining the grease QC laboratory and ensuring full compliance of the laboratory within the quality management system and safety protocols;
* acting as a subject matter expert and resource for LOP departments including Sales, Research and Development, Manufacturing, and Customer Service;
* resolving various customer, production, and laboratory problems directly;
* being a team player with a track record of good performance on cross-functional projects;
* The Grease Chemist works with R&D and operations functions in our Corydon, IN grease manufacturing plant. This person will be accountable for ensuring manufactured greases meet stringent quality requirements while advising plant operators to ensure manufacturing operations meet required quality, safety, and cost performance targets. This individual will manage the day-to-day operations of the grease QC laboratory, including (but not limited to) ordering consumables and reagents as necessary, scheduling and conducting instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, fill in as needed for laboratory technician duties, and develop updated policies and procedures to improve product quality, manufacturability, and profitability. This individual will also participate in Research and Development programs under the direction of the Director of Research & Development. He or She will perform assigned projects, though may conduct studies, manage projects, and work on large/complex projects independently. Often this role will be responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.
Accountable for quality control testing and qualification of manufactured grease products. Certifies materials within the Quality Management System.
* Develops lubricating grease formulations as part of the Research and Development department.
* Tests, qualifies, and identifies raw materials, suppliers, and process chemistry to implement lubricating grease formulations from development through scale-up, manufacturing, and commercialization.
* Coordinates and supervises operation of the grease manufacturing Pilot Plant for scale-up or process improvement projects.
* Accountable for maintaining grease QC laboratory and ensuring full compliance of the laboratory within the quality management system and safety protocols.
* Lead and participate in process improvement and raw material supplier qualification initiatives to enhance performance, efficiency, safety, and/or costing.
* Evaluate and interpret data. Provides technical recommendations to senior leadership and business functions regarding results, chemistry / component viability and necessary characterizations. Completes special projects as assigned.
* Participate in technical and/or project reviews and present findings as appropriate. Engage with assigned teams and cross-functional stakeholders, such as business, manufacturing, regulatory, marketing, customers, etc.
* Maintain accurate, up-to-date lab notebooks and records in accordance with established procedures. Ensure objectivity and accuracy in reporting and recording data.
* Understand, comply with, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
* Complete collation of data, final interpretation, and written test reports. Consult with customers as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective, and ensure that project goals are being met.
* Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in quality, safety, or operations improvement initiatives and maintain understanding of management system functions & responsibilities.
* Develop or improve test methods to enhance Research & Development efficiency and field performance predictability.
* Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and professional development through attending training, self-study, seminars, etc. BS/BA in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related science
* 5+ years relevant laboratory, manufacturing, or field experience with lubricants and greases
* Experience with Quality Control and/or Manufacturing Process Control in a Lubricating Grease manufacturing environment
* Must be physically able to work standing in the laboratory, sitting in an office setting, and in a manufacturing environment as necessary
* Proficient in Microsoft Office suite
* Must speak fluent English
* Some travel may be required, domestically and/or internationally
* Decision Making - Decision making in a timely manner based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment; while based upon appropriate risk and authority
? Understanding how business and operations are intimately linked. Analysis and Problem Solving - Solves difficult problems with effective solutions; Managing Performance - Possessing the drive and focus to achieve challenging goals
? Collaboration and Networking - The ability to work in and across the company's organizational matrix to achieve business objectives, via engaging interactions and influencing without authority.
? Project Management - The ability to manage tasks and activities and achieve their completion within the agreed framework, across regional and organizational boundaries
? can shift gears comfortably; can comfortably handle risk and uncertainty.
Opportunities to serve your community.
? Access to training and development.
If you are not able to relocate and prefer to work remotely, please do not apply.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.