Sr. Research Scientist

Senior Research Scientist

Location: TIC – Katy, Texas

Position Status: Full-Time

Exempt Status: Exempt

Company Profile: CNPC USA is a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation and serves as the North American headquarters. Our goal is to provide innovation, research, and development of new technologies for Oil and Gas Exploration and Production.

Job Summary

The Senior Research Scientist independently performs complex research and development of fracturing fluids and related oilfield chemicals. This position applies advanced expertise in chemistry, polymers, and surfactants to develop and evaluate materials, solve technical problems, and improve research methods. Within established project objectives, the scientist leads assigned technical work, collaborates across functions, mentors laboratory personnel, and contributes to intellectual property and technical publications.

Responsibilities

• Independently develop and evaluate fracturing fluids, oilfield polymers, surfactants, and related materials to meet established project objectives and customer needs.
• Design and conduct laboratory research, analyze results, and improve materials, formulations, test methods, and research procedures to strengthen performance and efficiency.
• Develop technical approaches, milestones, and resource estimates for assigned projects; coordinate research activities and monitor progress with the manager.
• Perform complex research independently within established objectives and consult with the manager on unusual problems, significant findings, and changes in project direction.
• Incorporate cost, health, safety, environmental, and logistical considerations into technical solutions.
• Supervise laboratory technicians, provide technical direction for assigned research and testing activities, and mentor personnel in research methods and problem-solving.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, presentations, patent disclosures, and publications; communicate findings and recommendations to technical and business stakeholders.
• Collaborate with colleagues and customers to address technical challenges and support project goals.
• Follow applicable health, safety, and environmental requirements and maintain safe laboratory practices.
• Conduct business activities in accordance with CNPC USA core values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• At least five years of research and development experience in oilfield chemicals.
• Knowledge of fracturing fluids, acidizing fluids, proppants, and related materials.
• Knowledge of current synthesis methods for oilfield polymers and surfactants and experience evaluating their performance and applications.
• Advanced technical expertise and the ability to independently manage complex assignments, interpret research results, and develop practical solutions.
• Effective interpersonal, technical writing, and presentation skills, including the ability to prepare technical reports, patent disclosures, and publications.
• Ability to collaborate across functions, improve processes, and mentor technical personnel.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Experience synthesizing and evaluating oilfield polymers and surfactants, preferred.
• Working knowledge of oilfield pressure pumping processes, desired.

Travel

Some international and domestic travel is expected. Local travel between other CNPC USA locations and testing facilities is required.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position routinely mentors laboratory technicians.

CNPC USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered regardless of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Disclaimer: The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.