Senior Research Engineer Job

Arkema•Upper Merion Township, PA

About The Position

If you’re passionate about applying science to real‑world challenges and want your work to make a visible impact, this is an opportunity to do exactly that. In this role, you’ll explore a wide range of chemistries, applications, and processes while contributing meaningfully to a highly successful and growing business. Arkema Thiochemicals Division provides organosulfur products (thiols/mercaptans, sulfides, disulfides, polysulfides, sulfonyls) for applications in electronics manufacturing, polymer and monomer processing and manufacturing, agrochemicals, oilfield, petroleum refining, mining, and natural gas odorization. As a Senior Research Engineer, you will play a key role in developing new applications for our specialty chemical products across diverse markets—including mining, adhesives, cosmetics, and coatings. You’ll combine hands‑on laboratory work with technical leadership, customer collaboration, and project ownership, all while working closely with a global team of experts in thiochemicals. You will lead and contribute across the full innovation lifecycle, balancing scientific depth with commercial impact: Day to day, you’ll lead research projects, independently execute laboratory work, and support safe and efficient lab operations, working from broad objectives while exercising significant autonomy. We’re looking for someone who thrives at the intersection of science, collaboration, and innovation. Key attributes include: You can expect occasional travel (generally less than 30%) and a strong emphasis on health, safety, and environmental responsibility, in line with site HES policies and regulatory requirements. You’ll work on technically challenging, high‑impact projects with real commercial outcomes—supported by a collaborative global team and a culture that values curiosity, ownership, and innovation. If you enjoy turning chemistry into solutions and building strong partnerships along the way, we’d love to hear from you.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Chemistry or Materials Science with 5+ years of industrial experience
M.S. degree with 10+ years of relevant industrial experience
Strong, practical experience applying new chemicals, materials, or polymers
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
A genuine interest in working directly with customers and external collaborators

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of polymer processing, organic chemistry, or organosulfur chemistry (thiols, mercaptans, sulfides, disulfides, sulfonyls)
Hands‑on experience with lab‑scale polymer processing (extrusion, compounding, injection molding)
Experience in formulation development
Strong understanding of materials science principles linking processing, application, and performance
Experience influencing and engaging both internal stakeholders and the broader scientific community
Track record of initiating and delivering new projects aligned with business goals
Spanish language fluency
Strong data analysis, documentation, and experimental planning skills

Responsibilities

Develop and lead applied research focused on specialty chemicals, materials, and polymers for real‑world applications (≈45%)
Partner directly with customers and external collaborators, representing Arkema through technical discussions, trials, and solution development (≈35%)
Scout emerging technologies, propose new research initiatives, and help capture intellectual property aligned with business strategy (≈20%)

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