Research Associate

Air Liquide • Newark, DE

17d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate leads and executes R&D projects by combining core engineering principles with digital tools to deliver technical solutions. Acting as both technical lead and project manager, the role drives projects through the full lifecycle, from defining scope to delivering solutions. It requires strong technical problem-solving and the ability to communicate complex data to technical and non-technical stakeholders through documentation and presentations.

The role is part of Air Liquide’s Innovation Campus Delaware in Newark, supporting businesses and markets in the Americas and worldwide. The Industrial Performance Group works to improve the reliability, efficiency, availability, and safety of industrial technologies and supply chains, using Data Science/AI, Operations Research, physical modeling, and process engineering.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• At least 3 years of professional experience in Air Liquide or a comparable industrial environment.
• Strong proficiency in process simulation tools, preferably Aspen Tools.
• Understanding of process design and optimization, process control, and safety.
• Ability to define and solve complex problems in collaboration with business units.
• Self-motivation, a strong safety mindset, and operational discipline.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and strong interpersonal skills.
• Passion for leadership and team development.

Nice To Haves

• PhD in Chemical Engineering.
• Prior experience in project management or industrial gas operations.
• Demonstrated expertise combining AI/ML with first-principles simulation modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support technical projects through the full R&D lifecycle.
• Apply process engineering principles, AI tools, and emerging digital workflows to solve complex challenges and optimize processes.
• Analyze and improve operational processes to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability through rigorous study and collaboration with operations teams.
• Engage cross-functional stakeholders, align priorities, and translate technical insights into clear, actionable deliverables.
• Collaborate with global R&D teams and subject matter experts to share knowledge and accelerate innovation.
• Manage multiple projects and adapt to changing R&D priorities.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Up to 14 weeks of paid childbirth benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Tuition assistance.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Benefits begin after 30 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level