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Apex Systems

Sr R&D Chemist - Polymer Science

Apex Systems, Richmond, Virginia, United States, 23214

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Sr R&D Chemist - Polymer Science Company: Apex Systems

Job Description Job#: 2091404

JOB SUMMARY: Conducts complex and/or non-standard research, development, and/or performance testing activities to meet stated objectives of the Technology Development team. Focused on using theory and mechanism to drive innovation. May act as overall or technical project lead and direct the work of other technical team members assigned to the project. High level of communication and presentation skill required. Often responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.

Responsibilities

Performs and/or manages formulation, synthesis, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use and leadership of the client Product Development Process. Designs approach, test plans, and milestones to project completion.

Develop fundamental understanding of lubricating oil performance, including developing structure/function relationships of componentry, reaction kinetics, dose-response relationships, and other mechanistic tools to deepen our understanding of our products. Use mechanistic understanding to design, and synthesize new components. Be able to practically characterize those components using standard analytical techniques, including NMR, MS, and spectroscopy.

Evaluates and interprets data, performance, and deliverables. Provides recommendations to R&D and project leaders regarding results, deliverables, progress and challenges. Identifies and eliminates hurdles to successful project completion. Conducts special projects as assigned.

Participates in technical and/or project reviews and presents findings as appropriate. Engages with assigned teams and cross‑functional stakeholders, such as business, process, marketing, etc. Assists in determining future direction.

Complete complex analytical testing procedures, in‑depth analysis and interpretation and provide a detailed and accurate test report to the customer in a timely manner. Evaluate all test/project data to ensure accuracy, completeness and reasonableness of conclusions.

Complete collation of data, final interpretation and written test reports. Consult with the customer as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective and ensure that project goals are being met.

Lead or direct special research projects independently. Oversee technical activities and/or supervise technical team members assigned to the project.

Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.

Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to‑date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.

Represent client in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and self‑development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of client.

Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc.

Minimum Education & Experience

BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent.

Preferred Education & Experience

BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science and Engineering.

Experience in different polymerization techniques, oligomer/polymer synthesis, polymer architecture design and synthesis, monomer synthesis, surfactant synthesis, kinetic and mechanism study, polymer degradation, and polymeric material characterization.

Experience or background in polymer physics, polymer chemistry, surfactant chemistry, heterogeneous systems, homogeneous systems, polymer solution, polymer rheology, application of polymer science is desired.

Strong utilization of theory and mechanism to drive inquiry and find applicable solutions.

Ability to build structure–activity relations in highly complex systems.

Use of statistical analysis software for analyzing large data sets is preferred.

Skills & Abilities

Decision making in a timely manner based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment; sometimes with incomplete information, under tight deadlines and pressure.

Business insight and understanding of the basis for our business model and market realization.

Problem solving – solves difficult problems with effective solutions; asks good questions and explores likely sources for answers.

Communication – ability to communicate information clearly and effectively in an engaging and convincing manner.

Coaching – provide structure, environment and support for teaching, training and development of individuals and teams.

Managing performance and goal achievement.

Collaboration and networking – work in and across client’s organizational matrix to achieve business objectives.

Project management – manage tasks and activities and achieve their completion within the agreed framework.

Innovation – openness to new ideas and ability to generate breakthrough solutions.

Dealing with uncertainty – cope with change, shift gears comfortably, decide and act with incomplete information.

Statistical applications in assigned area.

Demonstrate safe lab practices and procedures.

EEO Statement Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.

Apex Benefits Overview Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers an HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on‑demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach.

Job Details

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries: IT Services and IT Consulting

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