Process R&D Manager

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Process R&D Manager based in the United States.

As a Process R&D Manager, you will lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of innovative chemical manufacturing processes across a diverse technology portfolio. You will oversee multiple research and development programs, from early-stage process design and pilot studies to technology transfer and full-scale plant implementation. Working with global technology centers, engineering teams, and plant operations, you will drive cost-effective solutions while balancing technical feasibility, safety, and economic performance. You will provide technical leadership on complex process challenges and advise senior management on critical technology decisions. This hands-on role combines advanced chemical engineering expertise with project ownership, team mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration. It is an opportunity to shape new manufacturing technologies, improve industrial processes, and contribute to solutions supporting a more sustainable future.

Accountabilities:
You will take ownership of strategic process R&D initiatives, guiding projects from initial technical assessment through development, piloting, and industrial implementation. Your responsibilities will include:

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Process Development and Scale-Up: Lead the development of cost-effective manufacturing processes for new products, using agile approaches that encourage rapid experimentation, learning, and informed decision-making.

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Technical Assessment and Process Economics: Develop a deep understanding of process technologies, evaluating alternatives, technical trade-offs, operating requirements, and economic feasibility to support sound investment and engineering decisions.

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Technology Transfer and Licensing: Drive technology licensing and transfer activities, supporting engineering teams throughout engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning.

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R&D Program Management: Define objectives, establish work plans, and manage multiple concurrent projects across global technology centers and multidisciplinary teams.

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R&D Methodologies and Standards: Develop, improve, and promote consistent global R&D methodologies, technical standards, and approaches to process development.

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Experimental Studies and Piloting: Guide laboratory personnel in designing and executing chemistry and engineering studies, and lead pilot-scale investigations when required.

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Pilot Plant Design and Development: Lead the design and development of pilot plants to validate technologies, assess process performance, and support industrial scale-up.

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External Partnerships: Identify and develop relationships with external R&D organizations and technical partners to complement internal capabilities and accelerate innovation.

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Plant Troubleshooting and Process Improvement: Lead or support complex plant troubleshooting activities, working with operations and technology teams to identify root causes and implement effective solutions.

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Technical Leadership and Mentoring: Provide thought leadership in process development and unit operations, advise senior management on key technical questions, and mentor junior employees and laboratory staff.

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Safety and Compliance: Promote a safety-first culture and ensure adherence to company policies and applicable local health, safety, and environmental regulations.

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Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work effectively across technology, engineering, project management, and operations teams, constructively challenging assumptions and influencing decisions to achieve shared objectives.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate is an experienced chemical engineering professional with a strong foundation in process technology, industrial implementation, and R&D leadership. You should be comfortable taking ownership of complex, early-stage projects, managing competing priorities, and translating technical insights into practical manufacturing solutions.

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A Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering.

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At least 10 years of post-graduate industry experience.

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Demonstrated ability to define, own, and execute R&D programs, particularly early-stage projects with evolving requirements.

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Hands-on experience with technology transfer, pilot-plant or full-scale plant construction, and/or plant operations.

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Operational knowledge of a range of chemical unit operations and associated equipment.

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Experience understanding and designing for process safety.

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Strong chemical engineering fundamentals, including chemical reactions, fluid flow, and heat transfer.

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Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and competing priorities within a matrixed organization.

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Strong technical judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to constructively challenge ideas and influence decisions.

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Executive presence and the ability to advise senior management on complex technical matters.

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Curiosity, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning and adopting new technologies and approaches.

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Preferred: Experience in lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) or other fluorochemical production processes.

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Preferred: Expertise in solid-liquid separation processes and powder handling and testing.

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Preferred: Experience with statistics, process modeling, and simulation.

Benefits:

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Annual base salary typically ranging from $140,000 to $170,000 , depending on relevant skills, experience, location, and internal equity.

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Potential short-term and long-term incentive compensation.

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Benefits coverage starting on day one.

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Annual bonus plans.

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11 paid company holidays.

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401(k) retirement savings plan with a 6% company match.

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Wellness reimbursement.

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Healthcare coverage.

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Paid vacation and sick time.

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Parental leave.

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Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

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Employee assistance program.

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A diverse and inclusive workplace that values different perspectives and supports employee well-being and professional growth.