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. Accountabilities: 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.