Research Chemist Job

Sr. Chemist / Research Chemist 

SITUATION IN ORGANIZATION
Position reports to Fluorochemical Research Scientist.
No personnel report to this position

JOB DIMENSIONS
This position is responsible for conducting experimental studies designed to develop and optimize the performance of rigid polyurethane foam formulations using Arkema’s insulating blowing agents in support of Arkema’s Fluorochemical R&D programs.  This position requires hands on laboratory work involving a variety of wet chemistry, assembly of formulations, applications, analytical and materials testing techniques.  Work is to be performed in accordance with safe laboratory practices and with active participation in Arkema’s safety initiatives and programs.

ACTIVITIES
Safety
•    Embraces Arkema safety culture; actively participates in company safety programs; ensures safe laboratory operations; and utilizes all relevant safety processes and procedures. 
•    Operates in strict compliance with the company code of conduct.

Technical Aims
•    Performs polyurethane foam formulation, analytical, and materials testing experiments under the direction of a scientist
•    Multitasks effectively and efficiently organizes work
•    Generates, evaluates, and interprets data with supervision
•    Maintains laboratory notebooks and appropriate records
•    Troubleshoots problems and proposes solutions 
•    Writes technical reports and communicates results to supervisor
•    Works collaboratively with the fluorochemical R&D team to solve problems 
•    Maintains safe laboratory practices and a strong commitment to Arkema safety culture

Record Keeping and Reporting:
•    Reports to department and technical team/leadership both verbally and in technical reports and presentations, experimental results, data analysis, conclusions, and suggestions for next steps.
•    Captures data and shares results in an organized retrievable manner to systematically move research forward. 
•    Routinely solves assigned and self-uncovered complex scientific problems by individual initiative. 
 
Intellectual Property: 
•    With guidance, actively reviews the IP space for relevant projects to identify opportunities.
•    Works with management and legal to secure IP property as required.

CONTEXT AND ENVIRONMENT
- This position is located at Arkema's North American R&D Center in King of Prussia, PA.  The position interacts predominantly with Fluorochemical R&D and Business staff at the KoP site but will occasionally work with colleagues from other business units, manufacturing and pilot plants, as well as with international colleagues.
- This position supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements; participates in HES activities provided by site management and Arkema Inc. (e.g., Behavioral Base Safety); and supports and promotes the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident, or injury incidents.

QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
- BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science and Engineering plus 2-5+ years of relevant technical experience, or MS in related field with 0-3+ years of relevant technical experience
- Demonstrated Ability to safely handle and work with hazardous materials and to work independently to design and execute experiments with supervision. 
-Strong interpersonal skills with a track record of collaboration, networking, and teamwork
- Good organizational skills, proficiency in data analysis, and clear technical writing
- Proficiency with computer software (spreadsheet, word processing, presentation, and graphical analysis)
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and within a team environment
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Excellent written and oral communication skills

The following skill sets are preferred:
- Experience with polyurethane chemistry and formulation development
- Experience with polyurethane foam synthesis and characterization techniques
- Knowledge of insulating foam applications