Material Characterization Team Leader

Ashland Specialty Ingredients GP • Wilmington, DE

83d

About The Position

Ashland has an exciting opportunity for a Material Characterization team leader to join our Measurement Science group in R&D at our Wilmington, DE research center. This is a very visible, significant role within the Company and the R&D function. This position will report to the technical director of measurement science.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science or a related field.
• Proven experience and track record in materials characterization and analytical chemistry, preferably in materials and additives industry.
• Expertise in various materials characterization techniques in SEC, microscopy, rheology, colloidal science, thermal and mechanical analysis.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Experience in project planning, execution, and management.
• Independent decision maker with a record of successful technical achievement.
• Ability to travel within the United States and overseas as needed for product support.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Demonstrate safe, responsible and ethical behavior at all times.

Nice To Haves

• Experience and working knowledge of carbohydrate/polysaccharides chemistry and characterization.
• Experience in people leadership and resource management in an industrial setting.
• Understanding of relevant industrial regulations and guidelines (e.g., ISO, GMP, GLP).
• Hands-on experience with LIMS, Empower, Openlab and other instrument software platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of analytical and material scientists, ensuring the efficient execution of analytical projects.
• Mentor and develop team members, collaborating with other departments to achieve business objectives and support Ashland's growth/innovation strategies.
• Hands-on skill sets in materials characterization, including SEC, microscopy, rheology, colloidal science, thermal and mechanical analysis.
• Working knowledge of carbohydrate and polysaccharide chemistry and characterization.
• Hands-on analytical method development, validation, optimization, and transfer.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret complex analytical data to develop structure/property/performance relationships.
• Draw meaningful conclusions to support decision-making.
• Identify and resolve analytical issues and challenges, ensuring the integrity and reliability of results.
• Prepare and present clear and concise reports/presentations on project progress and results.
• Plan, organize, and execute multiple analytical projects, estimate timelines and resources, and coordinate efforts.
• Perform and oversee the maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of analytical equipment.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, safety guidelines, and SOPs.

Benefits

• Industry competitive salary and benefits.
• Pay-for-performance incentive plans.
• A diverse work environment where employees feel challenged and valued.
• Opportunities for development and advancement throughout the global organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree