Process R&D Manager
About The Position
The Process R&D Manager owns research and development efforts for key programs across Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials’ portfolio. Supported by a small direct team and a broader team in global technology centers, this role manages and delivers multiple simultaneous projects in a matrixed organization. Projects include new process development and design, technology licensing, process piloting, options analysis and techno-economic assessments, contract R&D, process improvements, and plant troubleshooting. The manager provides technical leadership in process development and unit operations, collaborates with technology, project, and operations teams, and advises senior management on technical questions and choices. Success requires a solution-oriented mindset and the ability to debate, constructively challenge, and influence across teams. This is a hands-on role; experience with LiPF6 or other fluorochemical processes and expertise in solid-liquid separations and powder handling and testing are highly preferred.
Requirements
- MS or PhD in Chemical Engineering.
- At least 10 years of post-graduate industry experience.
- Ability to take ownership and accountability for defining and executing R&D programs, especially early-stage, less-defined projects.
- Hands-on experience in technology transfer, pilot or full-scale plant building, and/or plant operations.
- Operational experience and understanding of a range of chemical unit operations and equipment.
- Experience understanding and designing for process safety.
- Curiosity and eagerness to learn and embrace new technologies and approaches.
- Ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
- Executive presence.
- Strong chemical engineering fundamentals in reactions, fluid flow, and heat transfer.
Nice To Haves
- LiPF6 or other fluorochemical production experience.
- Expertise in solid-liquid separations and powder handling.
- Experience with statistics and process modeling or simulation.
Responsibilities
- Own and be accountable for developing cost-effective processes to manufacture new products at scale, using agile, fast-to-fail approaches.
- Develop a deep understanding of process technology, available options, trade-offs, and economics.
- Drive technology licensing and transfer, and support engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning.
- Establish operational objectives and work plans for multiple areas across technology centers.
- Define and improve global R&D methodologies and standards.
- Guide and mentor laboratory staff in designing and executing chemistry and engineering studies, and lead piloting studies as needed.
- Identify and develop external R&D resources and partners to complement internal capabilities.
- Lead and support key plant troubleshooting efforts.
- Lead the design and development of pilot plants.
- Mentor and develop junior staff.
- Follow and encourage a safety-first culture and comply with Orbia and local safety, health, and environmental regulations.
Benefits
- Day-one benefits.
- Annual bonus plans.
- 11 paid company holidays.
- 401(k) with a 6% company match.
- Wellness reimbursement.
- Healthcare coverage.
- Paid vacation time.
- Paid sick time.
- Parental leave.
- Short- and long-term disability leave.
- Employee assistance program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
