Research And Development Manager

R&D Manager (Lubricants)

participate in long-term wealth creation

Role & responsibilities

1. Product Development & Innovation

• Lead the development of new lubricant formulations for automotive and industrial applications.
  
• Improve existing formulations for enhanced performance, regulatory compliance, and cost efficiency.
  
• Identify market gaps and develop products that address current and emerging customer pain points.
  
• Stay updated on global lubricant trends, additive technologies, and regulatory changes.
  

2. R&D Strategy & Execution

• Define and execute R&D roadmaps aligned with business and market strategies.
  
• Translate customer and market feedback into technical product improvements.
  
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and production teams for successful product launches.
  

3. Testing, Validation & Quality Assurance

• Oversee laboratory testing as per ASTM, BIS, ISO, and OEM standards.
  
• Ensure product validation through bench tests, field trials, and performance benchmarking.
  
• Analyze failures, deviations, and complaints to implement corrective and preventive actions.
  

4. Cost Optimization & Raw Material Evaluation

• Evaluate alternate base oils and additives to improve margins without compromising quality.
  
• Work closely with procurement to qualify new vendors and raw materials.
  
• Support scaling up formulations from lab to plant with consistency and reliability.
  

5. Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure accurate technical documentation, formulations, SOPs, and test reports.
  
• Support regulatory approvals, audits, and certifications.
  
• Maintain IP confidentiality and formulation security.
  

6. Team Leadership & Startup Collaboration

• Build and mentor a small, agile R&D team.
  
• Foster a culture of experimentation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  
• Work closely with leadership in strategic decision-making and long-term planning.

Preferred candidate profile

Education

• M.Sc. Chemistry / Polymer Chemistry / Petroleum Chemistry
  
• B.Tech / M.Tech in Chemical Engineering
  

Experience

• 4-10 years of experience in lubricant formulation, R&D, or technical roles.
  
• Strong hands-on knowledge of lubricant blending, additives, base oils, and testing.
  
• Experience working with engine oils, gear oils, hydraulic oils, or specialty lubricants.
  

Technical Skills

• In-depth knowledge of ASTM/BIS/ISO lubricant testing standards.
  
• Familiarity with lab equipment such as viscometers, flash point testers, oxidation testers, and moisture analyzers.
  
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and formulation optimization skills.
  

Soft Skills

• Entrepreneurial mindset with ownership attitude.
  
• Ability to work in fast-paced, ambiguous startup environments.
  
• Strong collaboration, communication, and leadership skills.