R&D Manager

Responsibilities

• Lead the Heavy-Duty Engine Oil (HDEO) R&D team in the development of enabling chemistry, new products, and performance testing.
• Build future, in-depth, fundamental understanding in the HDEO space to support future business needs.
• Initiate and align current research projects with future New Product Development (NPD) projects supporting the Engine Oils Product and Technology Roadmaps.
• Supervise team member activities, conduct performance appraisals, discuss training and career development needs, recruit and retain team members, and resolve problems and disciplinary issues.
• Consult with R&D Director and HR as appropriate, liaise with Afton’s Technology Development Team, and oversee the development of new components and other joint research activities.
• Translate internal and external marketing plans into actionable and efficient NPD and research plans.
• Oversee and ensure development, implementation, and monitoring of a comprehensive safety program.
• Facilitate, coordinate, and communicate between cross-functional groups on team activities.
• Facilitate, assess, and coordinate IP activities including competitor analysis, portfolio reviews, and generation of IP.
• Represent Afton in industry committees/technical societies/conferences or other meetings.
• Provide input to and manage the R&D budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field such as Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or Mechanical/Chemical Engineering.
• Demonstrated effective project management and leadership skills in a chemical R&D environment, including supervisory experience.