Entry Level Research Development Scientist Jobs in California

Total Number of Openings

1Chevron is seeking an R&D Scientist / Senior R&D Scientist to join the Catalytic Materials Team at the Richmond Technology Center (RTC) in Richmond, California.
The successful candidate will lead research and development activities focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of zeolitic materials for catalytic technologies supporting Chevron's refining, petrochemical, and emerging energy businesses. This is a highly hands-on laboratory role with a strong emphasis on zeolite synthesis, directing technician-supported experimental programs, and advancing new materials from concept through technical evaluation.
The ideal candidate will have expertise in zeolite materials and heterogeneous catalysis, enjoy working in the laboratory, and have a passion for developing innovative technologies that deliver business value.

Chevron is accepting online applications for Lead Research & Development Scientist position through August 5th at 11:59 p.m. (CST).

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated experimental scientist who enjoys solving complex synthesis and catalysis challenges through hands-on laboratory research. Success in this role requires strong expertise in zeolite synthesis and characterization, a solid understanding of heterogeneous catalysis for hydrocarbon conversion, and the ability to lead technician-supported research programs. Experience with catalyst testing, scale-up, and digital research tools is desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Design, plan, and execute R&D projects focused on zeolite synthesis, modification, and characterization.

• Lead laboratory programs to develop novel zeolitic and porous materials for catalytic applications.

• Direct and coordinate technician-supported experimental work to achieve project objectives safely and efficiently.

• Develop synthesis methodologies and optimize preparation routes to improve material performance and reproducibility.

• Collaborate with analytical laboratories to characterize synthesized materials using techniques such as XRD, adsorption measurements, spectroscopy, microscopy, and elemental analysis.

• Work closely with catalyst testing teams to evaluate catalyst performance and develop structure-performance relationships.

• Identify new material opportunities and translate business needs into research programs.

• Communicate technical results through reports, presentations, patents, and publications.

• Maintain a strong commitment to safety, operational excellence, and Chevron's Tenets of Operation.

• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, business partners, and external research organizations.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.

• Demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience in zeolite synthesis, modification, and characterization.

• Demonstrated expertise in heterogeneous catalysis for hydrocarbon conversion processes.

• Proven ability to design and execute experimental programs independently.

• Experience directing, mentoring, or coordinating technician-supported laboratory work.

• Strong understanding of materials characterization methods, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), adsorption measurements, and related analytical techniques.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

• Strong commitment to safety and laboratory excellence.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship from Chevron.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of industrial, national laboratory, or post-doctoral experience following completion of a Ph.D.

• Preferred experience range: 3-15 years post-Ph.D.

• Experience in zeolite synthesis, catalyst development, heterogeneous catalysis, or porous materials research.

• Experience with catalyst preparation, catalyst testing, and interpretation of catalytic performance data.

• Experience developing structure-activity and structure-performance relationships.

• Experience with zeolite or catalyst scale-up from laboratory to pilot or commercial scale.

• Demonstrated record of innovation through patents, publications, or technology commercialization.

• Experience using machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data science tools to accelerate materials development and experimental design.

• Experience working with hydro processing, petrochemical, renewable fuels, or related hydrocarbon conversion technologies.

• Experience collaborating with universities, industry partners, or external research organizations.

Key Skills

Technical Skills

• Zeolite synthesis and characterization

• Heterogeneous catalysis

• Hydrocarbon conversion

• Catalyst development

• Catalyst testing

• Materials characterization

• XRD and structural analysis

• Experimental design

• Data analysis

• Porous materials

• Hydrothermal synthesis

Leadership Skills

• Technician leadership and mentoring

• Laboratory program management

• Project leadership

• Cross-functional collaboration

• Technical communication

Preferred Skills

• Scale-up and process development

• Intellectual property development

• Machine learning for materials science

• AI-assisted research and data analysis

Regulatory Disclosure for US Positions:

• The compensation and reference to benefits for this role is listed on this posting in compliance with applicable law.

• Please note that the compensation and benefits listed below are only applicable for U.S. payroll offers. The anticipated salary range for this position is $120,300 - $237,800. The selected candidate's compensation will be determined based on their skills, experience, and qualifications.

• Chevron offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which includes, but is not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at http://hr2.chevron.com/.

Relocation Options:

Relocation may be considered.

International Considerations:

Expatriate assignments will not be considered.

Chevron regrets that it is unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider individuals on time-limited Visa status for this position

U.S. Regulatory notice:

Chevron is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin or ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, reproductive health decision-making, military or veteran status, political preference, marital status, citizenship, genetic information or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation, please email us at emplymnt@chevron.com.

Chevron participates in E-Verify in certain locations as required by law.