Laboratory Technical Services Manager - Lubricants & Metalworking Fluids

Univar Solutions•Houston, TX

20d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Laboratory Technical Services Manager will provide strategic leadership for Univar Solutions’ Custom Lab Services, leading product development and innovation across project portfolios and applications. The role leads lab-based activities at a Solution Center, setting objectives, meeting targets, and prioritizing resources. Working with Marketing, Sales, and Product Management, the manager develops new consumer products and formulations from concept through customer presentation, contributes to innovation and new product development, and serves as a technical expert on the existing product portfolio. The role also develops prototypes to demonstrate ingredient functionality and support sales, showcases products at industry trade shows and digital platforms, prepares detailed results, and tracks projects, revenue generation, and KPIs. The manager works with customers and internal teams to develop new business and support existing opportunities. Laboratory duties include setting up, calibrating, operating, and performing minor maintenance and repairs on instruments and equipment, optimizing instrument performance, and supporting safety inspections and equipment protection. The position is hybrid and based at the Custom Lab Services facility in Houston, Texas, with preference for candidates in the area. Travel is approximately 10%.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related scientific field.
At least 3 years of research and development experience, with strong emphasis on development rather than pure research.
Understanding of Lubricants & Metalworking Fluids raw materials and formulation.
Skill in creative development and preparation of chemical products and formulation innovations in the specialty ingredients space.
Knowledge of standard key test methods and laboratory and manufacturing methodologies.
Ability to handle multiple projects, prioritize workload, and excel at team management at a distance.
Ability to develop and grow positive relationships with key customer contacts and suppliers.
High-level decision-making ability that balances customer needs and company objectives.
Computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to perform essential duties in a laboratory environment, including working safely around chemicals and formulation materials, using standard laboratory equipment, remaining stationary or standing for extended periods, and occasionally walking, bending, reaching, squatting, and performing tasks requiring manual dexterity and fine motor skills, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

Lead lab-based activities in a Solution Center, setting objectives, meeting targets, and allocating and prioritizing resources.
Work with Marketing, Sales, and Product Management to develop new consumer products and formulations from concept through customer presentation.
Contribute to conceptualization and innovation and drive current and future new product development projects.
Serve as the technical expert for all facets of the existing product portfolio.
Develop product prototypes that demonstrate ingredient function and support the sales process.
Showcase new products at industry trade shows and on digital platforms.
Prepare detailed results for review and track and supervise projects and revenue generation to ensure KPIs are met.
Host and visit customers with Sales, Marketing, and Product Management teams to develop new business and support existing opportunities.
Set up, calibrate, operate, and perform minor maintenance and repairs on laboratory instruments and equipment, taking steps to optimize performance.
Assist with the company safety program in assigned areas, conduct periodic safety inspections, and maintain and protect company equipment.