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NCH Corporation

Research Associate - Lubricants

NCH Corporation, Irving, Texas, United States, 75084

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Research Associate We are seeking a highly motivated, detail‑oriented, and accomplished professional with a strong passion for research‑driven product innovation to join our Lubrication Research and Development team.

The successful candidate will serve as a Research Associate, responsible for initiating and leading product and process development activities — from laboratory‑scale experimentation through pilot‑scale validation to commercial trials and full‑scale manufacturing. This role demands exceptional communication and collaboration skills, enabling effective coordination with cross‑functional teams and business stakeholders to ensure timely and successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will proactively identify growth opportunities across the lubricant industry and drive concepts from inception to implementation. Technical contributions will span a broad range of lubricant applications, including engine oils, driveline fluids, gear oils, hydraulic systems, and fuels — with a primary emphasis on grease formulation and manufacturing processes.

A Little About Us NCH Corporation is a privately held, family‑owned, global business headquartered in Irving, Texas, near Dallas. With more than 6,500 employees, offices, and facilities on six continents, and clients in more than 48 countries, NCH focuses on delivering best‑in‑class maintenance solutions for industrial and commercial businesses.

Culture And 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, 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, 401(k) match, employee credit union)

Benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life, long and short‑term disability)

Responsibilities

Lead the development of innovative product solutions that address both emerging and existing business needs.

Hands‑on laboratory work, grease formulation and blending, and exploration of novel approaches to enhance lubricant performance.

Drive applied research initiatives focused on product innovation and manufacturing process optimization.

Collaborate with patent attorneys and research colleagues to identify, document, and secure intellectual property rights.

Maintain rigorous documentation standards and prepare comprehensive interim and final reports for projects and programs.

Engage with external clients, internal business units, and commercial teams to support sales and business development efforts.

Initiate and contribute to joint research programs with academic institutions, research organizations, and strategic business partners.

Requirements And Skills

Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering; advanced degree preferred.

Industry experience: Minimum of ~10 years in greases, lubricants, and/or fuel additives, spanning at least two of the following sectors: Oil & Gas, Mining, Construction, Agriculture/Forestry, Maritime, Rail, Pellet Mill, and Wind.

Technical expertise: Proficiency in grease chemistry, formulation, testing methodologies, production processes, and end‑use applications.

Formulation knowledge: Understanding of engine oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic oils, and gear oils.

Specialized formulation skills: Experience with Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs), food‑grade lubricants, and metalworking fluids.

Analytical proficiency: Advanced analytical and imaging techniques such as AFM, SEM‑EDX, Confocal Microscopy, XRD, and IR spectroscopy.

Background in tribology and/or rheology highly desirable.

Communication skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, proven in technical documentation and presentations.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.

Sound like a fit for you?

If yes, jump aboard and apply today.

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