Optimum Polymer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Location: Wickliffe, OH

Travel: 10% globally

Job Type: Full-time; On-Site

Shift + Hours: Monday - Friday; Day Shift

How You’ll Make an Impact 

As a Senior Process Innovation Chemist, you’ll be at the forefront of transforming how we manufacture developing and advancing novel process technologies that improve efficiency, enhance sustainability, and reduce capital investment. This is a role for someone who thrives on tackling complex, open-ended challenges and turning emerging concepts into real-world solutions. 

You’ll collaborate across disciplines and partner with leading universities and industry experts to explore what’s possible and then make it practical. Your work won’t just stay in the lab; it will influence commercial processes and shape the future of our operations. 

Success in this role requires both deep technical expertise and a pioneering mindset. You’ll leverage your background in areas like organic and polymer synthesis, reaction kinetics, and process design while applying data-driven thinking and a strong focus on safety and continuous improvement. Just as importantly, you’ll help others see the potential in new technologies and bring that vision to life. 

In this role, you will:

• Identify and advance opportunities across business segments to develop novel chemistries and apply new technologies. 
• Design optimal synthetic pathways and perform retrosynthetic analysis for existing and new molecules. 
• Plan and execute laboratory experiments from gram to multi-kilo scale including batch and continuous reactions, high temperature pressure reactions, and non-standard chemistry lab kit (e.g. autoclave and tubular reactors, various pumps and mixers, small bore tubing, compressors, controls and automation).
• Lead process development and scale-up efforts with internal and external partners to gather critical process data. 
• Collaborate with manufacturing and engineering teams to transfer processes safely to commercial production sites. 
• Provide technical support for manufacturing operations, focusing on process improvement and troubleshooting. 
• Develop relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including universities and industry groups. 
• Design processes including material and energy balances, equipment sizing, and control strategies. 
• Present technical findings and publish research insights for stakeholders and technical communities. 
• Support safety initiatives, process safety management, and continuous improvement practices. 

Required Qualifications that Enable Your Success 

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, preferably Organic or Polymer, with a minimum of 2 years of experience in process chemistry or development. 
• Experience scaling chemical processes from lab or pilot scale to commercial production. 
• Strong expertise in process design including mass and heat balances, reaction kinetics, and equipment design. 
• Experience conducting pilot trials and working with external vendors or contract manufacturers. 
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. 
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, ethics, and compliance with industry standards. 
• Strong project management skills using structured development processes. 
• Ability to travel globally up to 10% as needed. 

Preferred Qualifications that Drive You Forward 

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and hands-on laboratory equipment experience. 
• Experience developing techno-economic models including CapEx and OpEx analysis. 
• Knowledge of chemical and polymer unit operations and equipment design. 
• Experience with design of experiments (DOE) and statistical data analysis. 
• Familiarity with SAP, Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELN), or similar systems. 
• Ability to mentor junior team members and collaborate across organizational levels. 

Your Work Environment 

At Lubrizol, we’re committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where you can do your best work—whether in a lab, on the production floor, or in a hybrid office setting. Depending on your role, your work environment may include: 

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods 
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE provided 
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment 
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials 
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards 

We continuously invest in our facilities and technologies to ensure they support your well-being, productivity, and growth. If you require reasonable accommodation, we are committed to working with you to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience. 

Benefits that Empower You 

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus plans 
• 401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined Contribution 
• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision coverage 
• Health Savings Account (HSA) 
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave 
• Flexible work environment 
• Learning and development opportunities 
• Career and professional growth 
• Inclusive culture and vibrant community engagement 

Learn more at  https://benefits.lubrizol.com/!  

Lubrizol: Imagined for Life. Enabled by Science. ™ Delivered by You.

For nearly 100 years, The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has been at the forefront of innovation to enhance everyday life, advance mobility, and make the modern world work better. Our specialty chemistry solutions—from engine oils, performance coatings, and skincare to medical devices and plumbing systems —are powered by the expertise, passion, and commitment of people like you.

We tackle the world’s toughest challenges with science-based solutions, deeply understanding our customers to deliver innovative chemistry and differentiated value. Our inclusive culture, dedication to safety, and incredible global talent drive our success. Our solutions meet the evolving needs of the modern world—brought to life by science and, most importantly, delivered by you.

Whether you're in the lab, on the production floor, or in the office, you'll be part of a team around the world that empowers you to think boldly, drive results, and contribute to solutions that shape a better, more sustainable future. 

We win because of you. Let’s build the future together.

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