Position: Assistant Manager – R&D (Automotive Lubricants)
Location: Ambernath, Thane, India
Reporting To: Chief Technology Officer Key Responsibilities

Act as R&D expert in automotive lubricants, leading daily operations of the R&D team.

Contribute as a core team member in New Product Development projects for OEMs and the Automotive Aftermarket.

Manage R&D activities for product development, localization, and continuous improvements.

Oversee changes in Bill of Material (BOM) for automotive products.

Ensure timely pre-production blending and batch adjustments.

Approve and qualify new raw materials and deliveries related to automotive lubricants.

Identify, evaluate, and implement new R&D test methods and equipment; coordinate procurement requirements.

Collaborate with Product Management, Sales, Marketing, and Operations to establish project goals and priorities.

Participate in technical supplier meetings.

Work with EHS Manager to ensure MSDS, RoHS certificates, and formulation disclosures are available.

Support Sales and Product Management in customer meetings and technical presentations.

Provide technical training to subordinates, cross-functional teams, and external customers.

Handle technical complaint management within the R&D team.

Qualifications

Master’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering (PhD desirable).

Minimum 6 years’ experience in the lubricant field.

Strong background in petro-chemistry and lubricant technology.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Thorough knowledge of Management Systems (TS16949, ISO 9001, ISO14001, OHSAS 18001) and quality tools (APQP, MSA, PPAP, FMEA, 8D).

Hands-on experience in automotive lubricant formulations and specifications.

Proficient in Microsoft Office; ability to leverage digital tools for productivity.

SAP knowledge is an added advantage.