About the Company
LyondellBasell is a global leader in the plastics, chemicals, and refining industry. We create solutions for everyday sustainable living, driving advancements in areas like circularity, lightweight materials, and high-performance products. Our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship is central to our mission of producing materials that are essential to modern life while minimizing our ecological footprint. Join our team and contribute to a future where sustainable chemistry powers a better world.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated Plastic Processing Chemist with a strong focus on recycling and eco-friendly solutions to join our R&D team in Bakersfield, CA. In this role, you will be instrumental in developing and optimizing processes for the recycling and repurposing of various plastic materials. Your work will directly contribute to our circular economy initiatives, enhancing product quality, reducing waste, and innovating new applications for recycled polymers. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability within a leading global chemical company.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct research and development of new chemical processes for plastic recycling, including advanced sorting, purification, and modification techniques.
- Optimize existing plastic processing parameters to improve efficiency, yield, and material properties of recycled content.
- Analyze the chemical and physical properties of post-consumer and post-industrial plastic waste streams.
- Develop and implement quality control methods for recycled plastic resins and products.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, production, and business development, to scale up lab-developed processes to pilot and commercial scales.
- Maintain accurate records, prepare detailed technical reports, and present findings to internal stakeholders and external partners.
- Ensure all research and development activities comply with safety regulations and environmental standards.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of industrial experience in plastic processing, polymer chemistry, or recycling technologies.
- Demonstrated expertise in polymer characterization techniques (e.g., DSC, TGA, FTIR, GPC, mechanical testing).
- Strong understanding of plastic manufacturing processes (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
- Experience with analytical methods for impurity detection and contaminant analysis in plastics.
- Proven ability to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and troubleshoot technical challenges.
- Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with chemical recycling processes (pyrolysis, gasification, depolymerization).
- Familiarity with life cycle assessment (LCA) principles and sustainable product development.
- Knowledge of regulatory landscape concerning plastic recycling and environmental compliance.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software and experimental design (DOE).
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
- Employee assistance program (EAP).
- On-site fitness center or wellness program access.
- Performance-based bonus opportunities.
- Life and disability insurance.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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