Staff Chemist
Ashburn Chemical, Warren, OH, United States
About Ashburn Chemical / D-Ash Industrials
Ashburn Chemical, a division of D-Ash Industrials, is a specialty fluids manufacturer focused on metalworking fluid solutions serving customers across the automotive, aerospace, energy, and general manufacturing sectors. We are building a scalable, acquisition-driven industrial platform with a commitment to technical excellence, customer partnership, and continuous innovation.
About the Position
The Staff Chemist plays a critical technical role in supporting Ashburn Chemical’s metalworking fluid portfolio by performing laboratory-based research, development, testing, and quality control activities. Reporting to the Metalworking Technology Manager, this individual will execute formulation and performance experiments, support QA/QC of raw materials and finished goods, and partner with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to ensure existing products meet performance expectations and new products advance through development.
This is a hands‑on laboratory position requiring a strong experimental mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to translate laboratory data into actionable insights for internal teams and customers.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Research & Development
Conduct laboratory research on existing products and assist with new product formulation development under the direction of the Metalworking Technology Manager
Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments to evaluate product performance, compatibility, and stability under simulated field conditions
Support continuous improvement of existing products through performance optimization and cost‑effective reformulation
Prepare samples of R&D formulas and record test data to help establish and maintain QC specifications
Assist with competitive product analysis and benchmarking as directed
Testing & Technical Support
Perform routine and non‑routine testing related to metalworking fluids, including corrosion protection, lubricity, foam control, microbial resistance, and fluid stability
Conduct QA/QC testing of raw materials, in‑process samples, and finished goods to ensure compliance with internal specifications
Provide technical support to Sales and Engineering teams by interpreting test data and assisting with product selection, troubleshooting, and field performance evaluations
Support customer trials and product qualifications in coordination with the Metalworking Technology Manager
Laboratory Operations
Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration, upkeep, and documentation in accordance with company and regulatory requirements
Follow and enforce Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and company safety policies at all times
Assist with laboratory organization, inventory management, sample labeling and archival, and documentation systems
Help ensure laboratory safety, cleanliness, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulatory bodies
Data Analysis & Reporting
Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data to identify trends and performance outcomes
Prepare clear, concise laboratory reports, technical summaries, and progress updates for internal stakeholders
Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records, including R&D reports, QC logs, and technical service documentation
Work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, including Sales, Operations, and Engineering, to support customer and internal technical needs
Communicate technical findings effectively to both technical and non‑technical audiences
Participate in internal meetings and contribute to technical discussions and innovation efforts
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline
3+ years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably within specialty chemical manufacturing
Familiarity with standard laboratory instrumentation and testing methods used in lubricant or specialty fluid evaluation
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a detail‑oriented approach to experimental work
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to both technical and non‑technical audiences
Willingness to perform routine and repetitive testing as required alongside development work
Self‑motivated, hands‑on, and eager to learn new technologies and methodologies
Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance
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Ashburn Chemical, a division of D-Ash Industrials, is a specialty fluids manufacturer focused on metalworking fluid solutions serving customers across the automotive, aerospace, energy, and general manufacturing sectors. We are building a scalable, acquisition-driven industrial platform with a commitment to technical excellence, customer partnership, and continuous innovation.
About the Position
The Staff Chemist plays a critical technical role in supporting Ashburn Chemical’s metalworking fluid portfolio by performing laboratory-based research, development, testing, and quality control activities. Reporting to the Metalworking Technology Manager, this individual will execute formulation and performance experiments, support QA/QC of raw materials and finished goods, and partner with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to ensure existing products meet performance expectations and new products advance through development.
This is a hands‑on laboratory position requiring a strong experimental mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to translate laboratory data into actionable insights for internal teams and customers.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Research & Development
Conduct laboratory research on existing products and assist with new product formulation development under the direction of the Metalworking Technology Manager
Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments to evaluate product performance, compatibility, and stability under simulated field conditions
Support continuous improvement of existing products through performance optimization and cost‑effective reformulation
Prepare samples of R&D formulas and record test data to help establish and maintain QC specifications
Assist with competitive product analysis and benchmarking as directed
Testing & Technical Support
Perform routine and non‑routine testing related to metalworking fluids, including corrosion protection, lubricity, foam control, microbial resistance, and fluid stability
Conduct QA/QC testing of raw materials, in‑process samples, and finished goods to ensure compliance with internal specifications
Provide technical support to Sales and Engineering teams by interpreting test data and assisting with product selection, troubleshooting, and field performance evaluations
Support customer trials and product qualifications in coordination with the Metalworking Technology Manager
Laboratory Operations
Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration, upkeep, and documentation in accordance with company and regulatory requirements
Follow and enforce Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and company safety policies at all times
Assist with laboratory organization, inventory management, sample labeling and archival, and documentation systems
Help ensure laboratory safety, cleanliness, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulatory bodies
Data Analysis & Reporting
Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data to identify trends and performance outcomes
Prepare clear, concise laboratory reports, technical summaries, and progress updates for internal stakeholders
Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records, including R&D reports, QC logs, and technical service documentation
Work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, including Sales, Operations, and Engineering, to support customer and internal technical needs
Communicate technical findings effectively to both technical and non‑technical audiences
Participate in internal meetings and contribute to technical discussions and innovation efforts
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline
3+ years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably within specialty chemical manufacturing
Familiarity with standard laboratory instrumentation and testing methods used in lubricant or specialty fluid evaluation
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a detail‑oriented approach to experimental work
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to both technical and non‑technical audiences
Willingness to perform routine and repetitive testing as required alongside development work
Self‑motivated, hands‑on, and eager to learn new technologies and methodologies
Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance
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