Job Description

About Us

Blachford is a chemical manufacturing company, in operation since 1921. We produce lubricants for various industries, including for the production of ferrous and non-ferrous wire. Blachford remains a leader in our industry because we are constantly innovating to produce new and higher-quality products for our customers. All of our manufacturing processes are designed to be flexible and versatile with short lead times in mind. We have never been afraid to make big changes if they mean improving our quality of service.

To continue our expansion in the metalworking sector, we are seeking a skilled and driven

Senior Research Scientist - Metalworking

to join our talented team. This role reports directly to the VP of Technology at the Blachford Chemical Group head office in Ontario, Canada. The successful candidate will travel as needed to support laboratory work, field trials, customer meetings, and plant activities.

About the Role

We are looking for a highly motivated R&D professional with a strong chemistry or engineering background--ideally in metallurgy, corrosion science, or lubricants. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical knowledge and hands-on expertise in product development, formulation, and testing. This role plays a critical part in expanding our portfolio of

metal working fluids and wire drawing lubricants.

You will lead product innovation and process improvement, evaluate raw materials, support field technical service, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality and performance.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Development

: Design, develop, and test new formulations; enhance existing products for cost-effectiveness, field performance, and environmental impact.

Technical Service

: Conduct field and competitive evaluations, troubleshoot issues, and assist customers and sales teams with product performance insights.

Drive Continuous Improvement

: Collaborate with Quality Control to resolve non-conformances and suggest formulary or process enhancements.

Engage Cross-Functionally

: Work closely with laboratory technicians, plant teams, and senior leadership across our Canadian and US operations.

Travel & Represent

: Visit both plant locations (Mississauga, ON and Frankfort, IL) and attend industry events, courses, and webinars to remain up to date and represent Blachford as a technical leader.

What You Bring to us

Education

: Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Metallurgy (Master's or PhD preferred).

Experience

: 5-10 years in industrial R&D, ideally with exposure to lubricants, corrosion protection, and the metal processing industry.

Technical Expertise

: Proven track record in product development, raw material evaluation, and lab-to-plant scale-up.

Communication & Leadership

: Strong organizational, interpersonal, and technical writing skills. Ability to manage projects and mentor lab staff.

Tools & Systems

: Proficient in MS Office, Power BI, Teams, SharePoint, and modern lab testing methods.

Mobility

: Willingness and ability to travel to Blachford locations in Canada and the US.

Why Join Blachford?

Be part of a company with over 100 years of innovation in chemical manufacturing. Work alongside a passionate team committed to quality and continuous improvement. Contribute to developing sustainable, high-performance products in a dynamic R&D environment.

How to Apply

Please include a copy of your resume and a brief cover letter in your application. We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Blachford welcomes candidates to apply for the position. All applicants are welcome to apply. Should you need an accommodation in your application process please contact reach out to our HR department for further assistance.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Dental care Extended health care Paid time off Profit sharing Vision care
Application question(s):

Do you currently live within a reasonable commuting distance to our office? (yes/no)
Experience:

Laboratory formulation work: 5 years (preferred) product performance analysis: 5 years (preferred) working with lubriciants or metalworking based products: 5 years (preferred) Laboratory work: 5 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person