Role OverviewThis unique role within the Oil-Dri R&D team reports to the VP of R&D and requires a combination of technical strength with the desire to commercialize innovation. While supporting growth & innovation focus, this role also involves operational execution. This technical role will support innovation advancement by rapidly researching and evaluating a variety of new to world and new to Oil-Dri ideas at the bench.
This is an exciting opportunity for the right individual to leverage their technical expertise and drive Oil-Dri expansion and position us to capture national and global opportunities in a timely manner.
Role based out at the Innovation Campus (Vernon Hills, IL).
Monday - Friday onsite required.Key Responsibilities- Conduct independent research and/or development work on major research projects
- Support growth and innovation strategy execution aligned with overall Oil-Dri business goals.
- Partner with teammates to contribute to innovation portfolio and roadmap to drive growth and investment.
- Expected to play an active role in contributing to the creation of new products and supporting existing products
- Plans, designs, and implements projects under the framework of a loosely defined idea or problem
- Demonstrates an ability to draw non-obvious conclusions and make recommendations for new or modified paths of progression
- Provides solutions to complex problems requiring innovation in methodology
- Expected to recognize and recommend new ideas of commercial importance within his/her area of expertise
- Maintains a high level of competence through an up-to-date awareness of emerging technologies like AI
QualificationsEducation & Experience:
- M.S degree with 3 - 5 years or B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry or Chemical Engineering with 5 - 7 years' work experience
- A passion for innovation and commercializing innovation with examples of prior contributions to growth and delivering results.
Skills & Abilities:
- Record of providing technical solutions to complex problems where little precedent exists using ingenuity, creativity, and scientific approach
- Demonstrated capacity for independent, innovative, proactive approach to research and/or process improvement, but comfortable working in a team environment
- Capacity for making major decisions in the creation, planning, execution, and interpretation of technical data
- An individual in this on-site position will have the right blend of technical expertise, business acumen and passion for innovation execution.
- Curiosity related to potential markets that line up well with product innovation ideas and willingness and ability to research market trends and opportunities themselves
- Comfortable with diverse responsibilities and multiple project assignments with the ability to work through ambiguity and generate clarity
- Possess good working knowledge of research principles, theories, and techniques, with specialization in at least one field (chemistry, biochemistry, engineering)
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Mastery of word processing, spreadsheets, and graphics and AI awareness
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and to travel approximately 10% of the time.
Compensation & Benefits- Competitive pay ($76,855 - $99,911) + annual bonus
- 401(k) with 6% company match
- Paid parental leave, generous PTO, & paid holidays
- Work-life balance
- Career growth with exposure to senior leadership.
- Annual merit increase opportunity
- Fitness & Gym Reimbursement
- Employer Contribution - Health, Dental
