What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Chemist position at DrillChem?
TITLE: Staff Chemist
REPORTS TO: Director of Technology
LOCATION: The Woodlands, TX
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Drillchem Drilling Solutions is a leading provider of specialty chemical solutions serving the Oil & Gas, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), and Pipeline industries. The company develops and manufactures performance‑driven drilling fluid additives, lubricants, and lost circulation materials designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce risk, and improve wellbore performance across a wide range of applications.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Staff Chemist will play a critical technical role in supporting Drillchem’s product portfolio by performing laboratory‑based research, development, testing, and quality control activities. This position works closely with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to ensure existing products meet performance expectations and to assist in the development of new technologies focused on drilling lubricants, lost circulation materials, and related oilfield chemical systems.
This is a hands‑on laboratory position requiring a strong experimental mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to translate laboratory data into actionable insights for internal teams and customers.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Research & Development
- Conduct laboratory research on existing and developmental drilling fluid additives, lubricants, and lost circulation materials.
- Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments to evaluate product performance, compatibility, and stability under simulated field conditions.
- Assist in formulation development, including polymer‑based and particulate systems, with emphasis on water‑based drilling fluids.
- Support continuous improvement efforts for existing products through performance optimization and cost‑effective reformulation.
Testing & Technical Support
- Perform routine and non‑routine testing related to drilling fluids, fracturing fluids, sealants, and lubricant systems (e.g., lubricity, fluid loss, compatibility, thermal stability).
- Conduct QA/QC testing of raw materials, in‑process samples, and finished goods to ensure compliance with internal specifications.
- Provide technical support to Sales and Engineering teams by interpreting test data and assisting with product selection, troubleshooting, and field performance evaluations.
Laboratory Operations
- Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration, upkeep, and documentation in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
- Follow and enforce Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and company safety policies at all times.
- Assist with laboratory organization, inventory management, and documentation systems.
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data to identify trends and performance outcomes.
- Prepare clear, concise laboratory reports, technical summaries, and progress updates for internal stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
Collaboration & Communication
- Work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, including Sales, Operations, and Engineering, to support customer and internal technical needs.
- Communicate technical findings effectively to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
- Participate in internal meetings and contribute to technical discussions and innovation efforts.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Required / Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
- 3 years of relevant laboratory experience, preferably within oilfield chemicals, drilling fluids, or specialty chemical manufacturing.
- Working knowledge of drilling fluid systems, fracturing fluids, sealants, or lubricant chemistries.
- Familiarity with standard laboratory instrumentation and testing methods used in drilling fluid and lubricant evaluation.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a detail‑oriented approach to experimental work.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Willingness to perform routine and repetitive testing as required.
- Self‑motivated, hands‑on, and eager to learn new technologies and methodologies.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.