Senior R&D Chemist

About the role

This senior technical position supports R&D and product development within a specialist lubricants environment. You will provide technical expertise and guidance across projects, working closely with laboratory, manufacturing, commercial and quality teams. The role balances strategic oversight with limited hands‑on laboratory involvement.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise and guidance across R&D projects.
• Review and interpret technical and laboratory data.
• Support formulation development, optimisation and new product creation.
• Resolve technical challenges and act as a point of reference for R&D activity.
• Ensure projects progress effectively from development through to commercialisation.

Required profile

• Experienced R&D or formulation chemist with direct lubricants industry experience.
• Strong knowledge of base oils, additives and lubricant formulation principles.
• Proven experience supporting R&D and product development projects.
• Ability to translate laboratory data into practical technical recommendations.
• Experience collaborating with manufacturing, quality and commercial teams.
• Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Relevant degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related scientific field.
• Confidence to work independently and own technical projects.

Required skills

• Lubricant formulation
• Base oils knowledge
• Additives knowledge
• Product development
• R&D project support

What we offer

• Senior technical position with greater influence and ownership.
• Opportunity to contribute to product development and formulation improvements.
• Exposure to a broad range of R&D, manufacturing and commercial activities.
• Strategic use of lubricants expertise in a specialist business.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Career development within an established, technically focused organisation.