Process R&D Manager

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Process R&D Manager based in the United States. As a Process R&D Manager, you will lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of innovative chemical manufacturing processes across a diverse technology portfolio. You will oversee multiple research and development programs, from early-stage process design and pilot studies to technology transfer and full-scale plant implementation. Working with global technology centers, engineering teams, and plant operations, you will drive cost-effective solutions while balancing technical feasibility, safety, and economic performance. You will provide technical leadership on complex process challenges and advise senior management on critical technology decisions. This hands-on role combines advanced chemical engineering expertise with project ownership, team mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration. It is an opportunity to shape new manufacturing technologies, improve industrial processes, and contribute to solutions supporting a more sustainable future.

You will take ownership of strategic process R&D initiatives, guiding projects from initial technical assessment through development, piloting, and industrial implementation. Your responsibilities will include: Process Development and Scale-Up: Lead the development of cost-effective manufacturing processes for new products, using agile approaches that encourage rapid experimentation, learning, and informed decision-making. Technical Assessment and Process Economics: Develop a deep understanding of process technologies, evaluating alternatives, technical trade-offs, operating requirements, and economic feasibility to support sound investment and engineering decisions. Technology Transfer and Licensing: Drive technology licensing and transfer activities, supporting engineering teams throughout engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning. R&D Program Management: Define objectives, establish work plans, and manage multiple concurrent projects across global technology centers and multidisciplinary teams. R&D Methodologies and Standards: Develop, improve, and promote consistent global R&D methodologies, technical standards, and approaches to process development. Experimental Studies and Piloting: Guide laboratory personnel in designing and executing chemistry and engineering studies, and lead pilot-scale investigations when required. Pilot Plant Design and Development: Lead the design and development of pilot plants to validate technologies, assess process performance, and support industrial scale-up. External Partnerships: Identify and develop relationships with external R&D organizations and technical partners to complement internal capabilities and accelerate innovation. Plant Troubleshooting and Process Improvement: Lead or support complex plant troubleshooting activities, working with operations and technology teams to identify root causes and implement effective solutions. Technical Leadership and Mentoring: Provide thought leadership in process development and unit operations, advise senior management on key technical questions, and mentor junior employees and laboratory staff. Safety and Compliance: Promote a safety-first culture and ensure adherence to company policies and applicable local health, safety, and environmental regulations. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work effectively across technology, engineering, project management, and operations teams, constructively challenging assumptions and influencing decisions to achieve shared objectives. Requirements: The ideal candidate is an experienced chemical engineering professional with a strong foundation in process technology, industrial implementation, and R&D leadership. You should be comfortable taking ownership of complex, early-stage projects, managing competing priorities, and translating technical insights into practical manufacturing solutions. A Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering. At least 10 years of post-graduate industry experience. Demonstrated ability to define, own, and execute R&D programs, particularly early-stage projects with evolving requirements. Hands-on experience with technology transfer, pilot-plant or full-scale plant construction, and/or plant operations. Operational knowledge of a range of chemical unit operations and associated equipment. Experience understanding and designing for process safety. Strong chemical engineering fundamentals, including chemical reactions, fluid flow, and heat transfer. Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and competing priorities within a matrixed organization. Strong technical judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to constructively challenge ideas and influence decisions. Executive presence and the ability to advise senior management on complex technical matters. Curiosity, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning and adopting new technologies and approaches. Preferred: Experience in lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) or other fluorochemical production processes. Preferred: Expertise in solid-liquid separation processes and powder handling and testing. Preferred: Experience with statistics, process modeling, and simulation. Benefits: Annual base salary typically ranging from $140,000 to $170,000 , depending on relevant skills, experience, location, and internal equity. Potential short-term and long-term incentive compensation. Benefits coverage starting on day one. Annual bonus plans. 11 paid company holidays. 401(k) retirement savings plan with a 6% company match. Wellness reimbursement. Healthcare coverage. Paid vacation and sick time. Parental leave. Short-term and long-term disability coverage. Employee assistance program. A diverse and inclusive workplace that values different perspectives and supports employee well-being and professional growth.