Process Development Chemist (Textile Specialty Chemicals)

Company Description
CIEL HR is a premier Executive Search & Talent Advisory Firm currently retained by a leading, highly respected global player in the textile chemical and specialty materials sector. On behalf of our client, we are seeking a seasoned technical professional for a critical role based at their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Baroda.

Role Description
Process Development Chemist. This role acts as a critical technical bridge between laboratory innovation and large-scale plant production.

The selected candidate will lead laboratory experiments, spearhead new product introductions (NPI), drive operational excellence (OPEX) savings, and ensure "right-first-time" quality while troubleshooting plant deviations. This role features a highly dynamic, global-regional matrix scope (40% Local, 40% Regional, 20% Global).

Key Responsibilities

Lab Experiments & Process Validation
Conduct rigorous laboratory experiments for new product validations, plant troubleshooting, and cost-saving initiatives.
Evaluate finished good quality against precise specifications and yield targets to eliminate off-spec production before plant scaling.
Perform performance test evaluations for alternate raw material suppliers to optimize key raw material onboarding and mitigate site risks.

Plant Introduction & Troubleshooting
Lead new product introduction trials directly on the plant floor to accelerate commercialization.
Provide expert technical guidance to plant teams for in-process deviation rectifications and the rework of off-spec products to achieve prime quality standards.

Safety & Compliance
Prepare detailed Process Risk Assessments and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Participate actively in site HAZOP studies to maintain strict safety standards (adhering to SHE GL_26_Product Data Management and NPI guidelines).

Role Requirements & Qualifications

Education: Master’s Degree in Chemistry (M.Sc. or equivalent) is strictly required.
Experience: 5 to 8 years of solid hands-on experience in Process Development (PD) or Research & Development (R&D).
Technical Competencies:
Deep understanding of chemistry concepts for intermediates and finished goods within the Textile Chemical Industry.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and compare new chemical processes with existing manufacturing setups.
Proven proficiency in interpreting HPLC and application dyeing analytical reports.
Strong mastery of impurity analysis and assessing its impact on final product quality.
Core technical problem-solving skills to troubleshoot chemical deviations under autonomy.
Team & Stakeholder Interaction
Indirect Leadership: Provide cross-functional guidance to an indirect team of 1 to 5 personnel, including QC Chemists, Production Shift Chemists, and Lead Shift Chemists.
Technical Project Supervision: Coordinate technical workflows for a project team of 1 to 5 members (QC, Production, Operators, and Maintenance Engineers).
Cross-Functional Communication: * Collaborate daily with Production and QC teams, translating complex chemical data to broad operational audiences.
Interface weekly with Global R&T / Global Technology Platforms using persuasive communication to align process methodologies.
Coordinate weekly with Supply Chain teams regarding raw material evaluations.

Preferred Industry Experience

Specialty Chemicals manufacturing
Textile Chemicals, Dyes, and Auxiliaries
Polymer / Intermediates processing

CTC : Best in the Industry

How to Apply
As the consulting partner for this mandate, we ensure a streamlined and consultative interview process. If you meet the structural requirements of 5–8 years of PD/R&D experience in chemistry, please submit your updated CV via email to saraswathi.rao@cielhr.com.