Research Chemist / Engineer

Major petrochemical company is seeking a Research Chemist / Engineer for a contract role expected to last one year, with a chance for perm. Role is located near Evansville, Indiana.

Job Purpose & Responsibilities

Team member for process optimization and scale-up projects providing chemistry insight to project teams as an individual contributor.

• Develop, troubleshoot analytical methods. Adapt/modify methods from SABIC plants world-wide. Connect process chemistry issues in various plant and scale-up scenarios with the appropriate analytical investigation techniques.

• Conduct experiments to understand polymerization rxns in state-of-the-art, automated reactors, collect process data and analytical samples.

• Proficient in Excel, statistics analytical tools such as DOEs, ANOVAs, Control Charting and Interpreting. Be able to analyze data, draw sound, scientific, data-based conclusions and provide recommendations.

• Perform maintenance repairs and calibration of analytical instruments, process equipment and maintain analytical equipment in working order.

• Employs design of experiments, simulation, predictive modeling and analysis tools to maximize efficiency and speed within own area of work or function.


• Analytical method development for new chemistries and process trouble-shooting. Connect process chemistry issues in various plant and scale-up scenarios with the appropriate analytical investigation techniques.

• Understand the basic principles of ideation tools to create, test and incubate new ideas through Proof of Concept and conceptual thinking.


• Carries out literature searches, collects inputs/data and organizes information from multiple resources (University Network, Research Institutes, Research Articles, Published Data, Market trends, etc.) to obtain specific results and reports.

• Demonstrates ability to draw conclusions based on limited time and data to make credible recommendations within own function of area of expertise.


• Review and analyze plant information regarding quality and process parameters to help with process optimization for capacity projects.

• Improve and translate process chemistries and methods in order to execute process scale up and capacity expansion programs. Regularly interact with global SABIC Technology Centers as well as internal and external manufacturing sites.

• Responsible for becoming SME with lab equipment operations
• Will fully own Lab safety and housekeeping responsibilities.


Requirements I

Degrees: BS (+ 2-5 yrs. Related experience or MS (0 yrs. Experience)

Strong mechanical aptitude with regard to equipment operation and troubleshooting.

Familiarity with analytical test techniques (FTIR, GPC, particle size analyzer, GC, titration, etc.), polymerization reaction processes, experience in commissioning process, and laboratory instrumental techniques.

Ability to work independently as well as demonstrated teamwork and leadership skills.

Proficiency with MS Word/Excel, PowerPoint

Desired Skill
Ability to solve relevant technical problems and perform troubleshooting in the field of study with appropriate use of DOE, Statistical Analysis and problem solving tools

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for internal and external interface.

Attention to detail and organized approach to work

Polymer science background a plus