Title:Sr. Technical leader - Refining Catalyst Development
KBR is seeking a
Chief Technical leader for Refining Catalyst Development responsible for all phases of catalyst commercialization including R&D, manufacturing and customer support. Work will include coordination of cross-functional groups within KBR as well as partner organizations and personnel. Position will be full-time located in Houston, Texas (No remote functioning acceptable).
Functional job responsibilities will include but are not limited to:- Provide global technical leadership for refining catalyst technologies across research, development, scale up, commercialization, and lifecycle support
- Act as Chief Technical Authority for revenue generating refining catalysts, including:
- FCC catalysts (including ZSM 5 based and enhanced performance formulations)
- Hydrocracking catalysts
- Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts
- Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
- Lead catalyst R&D programs, including formulation development, testing, pilot evaluation, and commercial qualification
- Support catalyst manufacturing strategy, ensuring robustness, quality, and consistency from lab to commercial production
- Serve as senior technical interface with customers, providing support for trials, performance optimization, troubleshooting, and technical reviews
- Lead and support commercialization of next generation ("blue ocean") technologies
- Translate early-stage concepts into commercial products, including pilot programs, demonstrations, and first of a kind applications
- Support licensing, proposals, and business development, providing deep technical differentiation and credibility
- Collaborate cross functionally with R&D, manufacturing, licensing, sales, and project execution teams globally
- Coordinate with external partners, suppliers, and research organizations as required
- Provide technical input to IP strategy, including patents, trade secrets, and freedom to operate assessments
- Mentor and develop senior technical staff, strengthening long term technical capability within KBR
- Represent KBR as a technical expert in customer meetings, industry forums, and technical conferences
- Travel domestically and internationally to support customers, commercialization activities, and business growth initiatives
Required Education, Experience, & Skills:- Master's degree in chemical engineering
- 10+ years CURRENT experience in Refining Process Catalyst research and manufacturing (or equivalent)
- Ability to work in cross-functional and multi-cultural environments
- Strong English verbal, writing and reading communication skills
- Must have the ability to clearly convey technical concepts and principles in both verbal and written communications to clients, peers and KBR management
- Must be willing and available to travel 25-50% domestic and international, as needed
Preferred Education & Skills:- 15+ years of experience
- Background in Refining and experience in Petrochemical processes
- Multi language capabilities including Korean and Mandarin preferred
- PhD in Chemical Engineering
Decarbonization - Energy Transition - Sustainability KBR BenefitsKBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Click here to learn more: KBR Benefits
