Research And Development Chemist

Company Description

Fulcrum Energy, LLC specializes in manufacturing FulVis™ high-performance viscosity modifiers used in formulating engine and industrial oils. By addressing the evolving challenges of lubricant formulations, Fulcrum Energy delivers innovative solutions to meet higher performance standards. Through extensive testing, precise engineering, and proven formulations, the company has developed VI improvers with remarkable shear stability and low-temperature properties. Choosing FulVis™ viscosity modifiers helps you improve product performance and lower manufacturing costs. Fulcrum Energy takes pride in its commitment to innovation and excellence.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site position as a Research and Development Chemist, based in El Dorado, AR. The role involves conducting experiments, developing and optimizing formulations, and analyzing chemical and physical properties of materials. The R&D Chemist will collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensure quality control measures are in place, and provide technical expertise to drive innovation in the production of high-performance viscosity modifiers. This role plays a critical part in developing, optimizing, and maintaining high-performance lubricant formulations while ensuring consistent quality, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective supply chains.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in polymer chemistry (elastomer), materials science, or formulation chemistry, with practical experience in lubricants, base oils, additives, or specialty chemicals.

Key Responsibilities

Raw Material Sourcing & Evaluation

• Identify, source, and technically evaluate raw materials, including:
• Base oils (mineral, synthetic, bio-based)
• Polymer modifiers (VI improvers, pour point depressants)
• Additive components (anti-wear, detergents, dispersants, antioxidants, friction modifiers)
• Work closely with suppliers to obtain samples, technical data, COAs, and pricing
• Qualify alternative and secondary sources to reduce supply risk and cost

Formulation & Product Development

• Develop, optimize, and scale lubricant and additive formulations to meet performance, cost, and regulatory requirements
• Modify formulations in response to raw material changes, supply disruptions, or customer specifications
• Support new product development from lab-scale through pilot and commercial production
• Troubleshoot formulation and performance issues in production and field applications

Testing & Performance Validation

• Design and execute laboratory testing programs for raw materials and finished products
• Perform and interpret standard lubricant tests, such as:
• Viscosity (KV40/KV100, VI)
• Pour point, flash point, density
• Oxidation stability
• Shear stability
• Compatibility and stability testing
• Coordinate third-party or industry-standard testing (ASTM, OEM, or customer-specific)

Quality Control & Assurance

• Establish and maintain raw material and finished product specifications
• Review and approve Certificates of Analysis (COAs)
• Investigate quality deviations, root causes, and corrective actions
• Support continuous improvement of QC procedures and testing methods
• Ensure compliance with internal quality standards and customer requirements

Procurement & Supply Chain Support

• Provide technical input for purchasing decisions and supplier negotiations
• Assist in supplier audits, qualification, and performance reviews
• Support inventory optimization through material standardization and formulation flexibility

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain detailed technical documentation, formulations, test reports, and SOPs
• Support regulatory compliance (TSCA, REACH, SDS development, customer disclosures)
• Assist with customer technical support, data packages, and audits as needed

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in lubricant, additive, polymer, or specialty chemical formulation
• Strong understanding of lubricant chemistry and raw material interactions
• Hands-on laboratory experience with formulation and testing
• Familiarity with ASTM test methods relevant to lubricants
• Strong analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills

Preferred

• Master’s or PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline
• Experience with:

- Lubricant additive packages

- Polymer modification and rheology

- Base oil selection and blending

- Industrial, automotive, or specialty lubricants

• Experience working directly with suppliers and procurement teams
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements affecting lubricants and chemicals

Skills:

• Formulation development and optimization
• Raw material qualification and sourcing
• Laboratory testing and data analysis
• Quality control and troubleshooting
• Supplier and cross-functional collaboration
• Clear technical communication (written and verbal)

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Opportunity to influence product strategy and raw material selection
• Hands-on role with direct impact on product quality and performance

Competitive Benefits Package:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life Insurance:
• Company-paid
• Supplemental options available
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to 6% company matching

Additional Benefits:

• Paid time off (PTO)
• Company-paid holidays
• 5% annual bonus target (based on company and individual performance)