NCH · 17 hours ago
Research Associate - Lubricants
NCH Corporation is a global business focused on providing innovative solutions in maintenance and conservation. They are seeking a Research Associate to join their Lubrication Research and Development team, responsible for leading product and process development activities in the lubricant industry, with a focus on grease formulation and manufacturing processes.
Direct MarketingIndustrial
Responsibilities
Lead the development of innovative product solutions that address both emerging and existing business needs, delivering value to internal stakeholders and external customers
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
Drive applied research initiatives focused on product innovation and manufacturing process optimization to improve efficiency, quality, and scalability
Collaborate with patent attorneys and research colleagues to identify, document, and secure intellectual property rights for breakthrough technologies
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
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
Initiate, cultivate, and contribute to joint research programs with academic institutions, research organizations, and strategic business partners
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering is required
Minimum of ~10 years of hands-on experience in the development and commercialization of greases, lubricants, and/or fuel additives
Experience should span at least two of the following sectors: Oil & Gas, Mining, Construction, Agriculture/Forestry, Maritime, Rail, Pellet Mill, and Wind
Demonstrated proficiency in grease chemistry, formulation (cooking), testing methodologies, production processes, and end-use applications
Solid understanding of formulation principles and chemistry related to engine oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic oils, and gear oils
Experience in developing Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs), food-grade lubricants, gear and transmission oils, engine oils, hydraulic fluids, and metalworking fluids
Skilled in advanced analytical and imaging techniques including Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Confocal Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy
Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality technical documentation and presentations
Preferred
An advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) is preferred but not mandatory
Certifications such as CLS or CLGS are considered advantageous
Background in tribology and/or rheology is highly desirable
Benefits
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 sponsorships 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)
Company
NCH
Cleaning water, conserving energy and delivering maintenance solutions since 1919.
H1B Sponsorship
NCH has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2024 (1)
2023 (2)
2022 (6)
2021 (3)
2020 (4)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknown2025-06-19Acquired
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