Development Chemist I - Fluid Power Lab

About Us

At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of industrial process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial and manufacturing companies from aerospace and automotive to primary metal and energy. 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 colleagues and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs.

Job Summary

As a member of the Fluid Power Research and Development team, the Development Chemist I supports the development and improvement of Quaker Houghton products used for industrial oil applications, with respect to hydraulic and industrial lubricant fluids. Reporting to the Lab Manager, the chemist will be responsible for maintaining and improving existing formulations, evaluating and testing new and existing raw materials and for providing solutions to new application problems under the supervision of a senior team member.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve chemical products used in a variety of manufacturing and mechanical systems in order to enhance processes, safety and quality in order to meet customer needs and provide solutions to application problems.
• Execute tests of new and alternative raw materials in order to enhance performance and minimize cost. After evaluation of manager, implement alternative raw materials in existing products.
• Carry out prescribed tests and determinations, in order to answer questions and address problems of customers. Perform customer requested product analysis and testing.
• Execute analytical tests in order to determine quantitative and qualitative composition of raw materials, formulations, competitive products, and other chemical (field) samples.
• Determine performance characteristics of competitive products using physical, instrumental, and wet analysis techniques.
• Clearly and orderly record all observations and data. Under guidance, report results in a clear and concise manner to enhance technical exchange.
• 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 in order to improve the quality and efficiency of the manufacturing process. Assist manufacturing and the quality assurance lab in solving quality and production problems.
• Maintain equipment glassware and workspace in order to keep them clean and well- functioning. Properly dispose of all laboratory waste. Participate in ensuring good management of laboratory equipment and storage spaces for chemicals and raw materials. Comply with housekeeping rules.
• Ensure that all laboratory equipment is calibrated and functioning properly.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor or equivalent degree in Chemistry (organic, polymer, inorganic). Relevant internship or co-op experience required
• Analytical in nature with experience as a multi-disciplinary collaborative solution seeker.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment.
• Willingness & ability to travel both domestically when necessary.
• Willingness & ability to do hands-on lab work and plant trials when required.
• Excellent knowledge in use of laboratory instrumentation used in surface, emulsion, polymer chemistry.
• Results focused and committed to exceeding customer expectations.

What's in it for you:

• On-Site work environment in Valley Forge, PA
• Competitive pay programs with excellent career growth trajectory
• Opportunities to see your efforts contribute toward the success of the business
• Work for a global leader in the industrial process fluids industry

Quaker Houghton is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse workforce. Quaker Houghton provides equal employment opportunity for all qualified candidates. Quaker Houghton does not discriminate against any candidate for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, veteran’s status, physical/mental disability, genetic information, or any other category protected by U.S federal, state, and/or local employment law. Furthermore, Quaker Houghton is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates with physical and/or mental disabilities. Applicants with a disability who need assistance applying for a position may email OneHR@quakerhoughton.com.