R&D Chemist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
R&D Chemist roles qualify as specialty occupations under the H-1B visa, meaning employers must file a Labor Condition Application and I-129 petition on your behalf. Pharmaceutical, materials science, and specialty chemical firms sponsor regularly. No lottery exemption exists, but cap-exempt research institutions offer an alternative path.
Find R&D Chemist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 178+ R&D Chemist jobs
See all 178+ R&D Chemist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new R&D Chemist roles.
Get Access To All JobsAbout us:
Afton Chemical Corporation is part of the NewMarket Corporation (NYSE: NEU) family of companies, and is one of the largest global suppliers of lubricant additives and offers a broad line of fuel additives worldwide.
JOB SUMMARY: Conducts complex and/or non-standard research, development, and/or performance testing activities to meet stated objectives of the Technology Development team. Focused on using theory and mechanism to drive innovation. May act as overall or technical project lead and direct the work of other technical team members assigned to the project. High level of communication and presentation skill required. Often responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.
Responsibilities:
-
Performs and/or manages formulation, synthesis, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use and leadership of the Afton Product Development Process. Designs approach, test plans, and milestones to project completion.
-
Develop fundamental understanding of lubricating oil performance, including developing structure/function relationships of componentry, reaction kinetics, dose-response relationships, and other mechanistic tools to deepen our understanding of our products. Use mechanistic understanding to design, and synthesize new components. Be able to practically characterize those components using standard analytical techniques, including NMR, MS, and spectroscopy.
-
Evaluates and interprets data, performance, and deliverables. Provides recommendations to R&D and project leaders regarding results, deliverables, progress and challenges. Identifies and eliminates hurdles to successful project completion. Conducts special projects as assigned.
-
Participates in technical and/or project reviews and presents findings as appropriates. Engages with assigned teams and cross-functional stakeholders, such as business, process, marketing, etc. Assists in determining future direction.
-
Complete complex analytical testing procedures, in-depth analysis and interpretation and provide a detailed and accurate test report to the customer in a timely manner. Evaluate all test/project data to ensure accuracy, completeness and reasonability of conclusions.
-
Complete collation of data, final interpretation and written test reports. Consult with the customer as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective and ensure that project goals are being met.
-
Lead or direct special research projects independently. Oversee technical activities and/or supervise technical team members assigned to the project.
-
Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
-
Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.
-
Represent Afton in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of Afton.
-
Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE MINIMUMS:
- BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:
- BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science and Engineering.
- Experience in polymer synthesis, molecular architecture design, reaction kinetics and mechanisms, degradation studies, and material characterization is required. Knowledge of polymer chemistry, polymer physics, rheology, surfactant chemistry, solution behavior, heterogeneous and homogeneous systems, and industrial applications of polymer science is highly desirable.
- Strong expertise in analytical and structural characterization techniques for polymers, including olefin copolymers, (meth)acrylate copolymers, rubbers, and other polymeric materials.
- Strong utilization of theory and mechanism to drive inquiry and find applicable solutions.
- Ability to build structure activity relations in highly complex systems.
- Use of statistical analysis software for analyzing large data sets is preferred.
SKILLS/ABILITIES:
- Decision Making - Decision making in a timely manner based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment; sometimes with incomplete information, under tight deadlines and pressure; while based upon appropriate risk and authority.
- Business Insight - The understanding of the basis for our business model and how that is realized in the market. The understanding of how business and operations are intimately linked. The ability to use information, practices & trends, affecting the business to engage and drive new strategies and tactics work in the marketplace.
- Analysis and Problem Solving - Solves difficult problems with effective solutions; asks good questions and questions all likely sources for answers; can solve complex problems and recognize complex patterns; utilizing all appropriate tools to reach a robust answer.
- Communication - The ability to communicate information clearly and effectively in an engaging and convincing manner.
- Coaching - The ability to provide the structure, environment and support for teaching, training and development of individuals and teams to enable them to achieve specific personal or professional results or goals.
- Managing Performance - Possessing the drive and focus to achieve challenging goals.
- Collaboration and Networking - The ability to work in and across Afton's organizational matrix to achieve business objectives, via engaging interactions and influencing without authority.
- Project Management - The ability to manage tasks and activities and achieve their completion within the agreed framework, across regional and organizational boundaries.
- Innovation - The openness to new ideas and the ability to generate breakthrough solutions. Can develop, seek out, critically assess and implement new and value adding concepts.
- Dealing with Uncertainty - Can effectively cope with change; can shift gears comfortably; can decide and act without having the total picture; isn’t upset when things are up in the air; doesn’t have to finish things before moving on; can comfortably handle risk and uncertainty.
- Demonstrates acceptable statistical applications to assigned area.
- Consistent demonstration of safe lab practices and procedures.
Working at Afton
Who We Are - We're a diverse, global family of individuals, who share a passion for developing innovative solutions. We build our professional relationships on respect, integrity and a commitment to safety and quality. Just as these values apply to our professional relationships, they also apply to the way we feel about our neighbors and communities.
Our Work - At Afton, our innovative R&D programs lead to global growth. Our lubricant and fuel additives are among the most highly developed and widely used in the petroleum industry. Afton is a recognized and trusted supplier of driveline lubricant additives, engine oil additives, fuel additives and industrial lubricant additives.
Benefits / Compensation - Our employees are our most treasured asset and we are committed to recognizing and rewarding our employees for their commitment on an ongoing basis. In addition to the salary listed above, we offer the following benefits to all full-time employees:
- 100% Company funded Pension Plan
- 401k Savings Plan including a company match
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- Paid Vacation
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Dependent and Personal Accident Insurance
- Identity Theft insurance
Pay Range: $90,000 - $105,000
The pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the previously determined minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries; within the range, individual pay is determined by factors including job scope, job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Please note that the pay range listed in this posting reflects the base salary only and does not include the value of benefits that are provided in addition to the salary for this position.
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
About us:
Afton Chemical Corporation is part of the NewMarket Corporation (NYSE: NEU) family of companies, and is one of the largest global suppliers of lubricant additives and offers a broad line of fuel additives worldwide.
JOB SUMMARY: Conducts complex and/or non-standard research, development, and/or performance testing activities to meet stated objectives of the Technology Development team. Focused on using theory and mechanism to drive innovation. May act as overall or technical project lead and direct the work of other technical team members assigned to the project. High level of communication and presentation skill required. Often responsible for multiple projects of varying complexity occurring at same time.
Responsibilities:
-
Performs and/or manages formulation, synthesis, and/or testing activities to meet established project objectives. Effective use and leadership of the Afton Product Development Process. Designs approach, test plans, and milestones to project completion.
-
Develop fundamental understanding of lubricating oil performance, including developing structure/function relationships of componentry, reaction kinetics, dose-response relationships, and other mechanistic tools to deepen our understanding of our products. Use mechanistic understanding to design, and synthesize new components. Be able to practically characterize those components using standard analytical techniques, including NMR, MS, and spectroscopy.
-
Evaluates and interprets data, performance, and deliverables. Provides recommendations to R&D and project leaders regarding results, deliverables, progress and challenges. Identifies and eliminates hurdles to successful project completion. Conducts special projects as assigned.
-
Participates in technical and/or project reviews and presents findings as appropriates. Engages with assigned teams and cross-functional stakeholders, such as business, process, marketing, etc. Assists in determining future direction.
-
Complete complex analytical testing procedures, in-depth analysis and interpretation and provide a detailed and accurate test report to the customer in a timely manner. Evaluate all test/project data to ensure accuracy, completeness and reasonability of conclusions.
-
Complete collation of data, final interpretation and written test reports. Consult with the customer as necessary to review and explain results, offer insight and analytical perspective and ensure that project goals are being met.
-
Lead or direct special research projects independently. Oversee technical activities and/or supervise technical team members assigned to the project.
-
Understand, comply, and promote safe laboratory and work practices, including appropriate safety regulations and procedures.
-
Assure that complete documentation is maintained on ISO or Quality System related activities. Participate in Quality System related activities and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the Quality System functions & responsibilities.
-
Represent Afton in technical conferences, societies and other industry activities. Maintain adequate level of technical expertise and self-development through study, seminars, etc. Stay informed of advanced developments inside and outside of Afton.
-
Participate in IP activities as required, including competitor reviews, freedom to practice assessments, patent filings, invention disclosures, etc.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE MINIMUMS:
- BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:
- BS/PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Polymer Science and Engineering.
- Experience in polymer synthesis, molecular architecture design, reaction kinetics and mechanisms, degradation studies, and material characterization is required. Knowledge of polymer chemistry, polymer physics, rheology, surfactant chemistry, solution behavior, heterogeneous and homogeneous systems, and industrial applications of polymer science is highly desirable.
- Strong expertise in analytical and structural characterization techniques for polymers, including olefin copolymers, (meth)acrylate copolymers, rubbers, and other polymeric materials.
- Strong utilization of theory and mechanism to drive inquiry and find applicable solutions.
- Ability to build structure activity relations in highly complex systems.
- Use of statistical analysis software for analyzing large data sets is preferred.
SKILLS/ABILITIES:
- Decision Making - Decision making in a timely manner based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment; sometimes with incomplete information, under tight deadlines and pressure; while based upon appropriate risk and authority.
- Business Insight - The understanding of the basis for our business model and how that is realized in the market. The understanding of how business and operations are intimately linked. The ability to use information, practices & trends, affecting the business to engage and drive new strategies and tactics work in the marketplace.
- Analysis and Problem Solving - Solves difficult problems with effective solutions; asks good questions and questions all likely sources for answers; can solve complex problems and recognize complex patterns; utilizing all appropriate tools to reach a robust answer.
- Communication - The ability to communicate information clearly and effectively in an engaging and convincing manner.
- Coaching - The ability to provide the structure, environment and support for teaching, training and development of individuals and teams to enable them to achieve specific personal or professional results or goals.
- Managing Performance - Possessing the drive and focus to achieve challenging goals.
- Collaboration and Networking - The ability to work in and across Afton's organizational matrix to achieve business objectives, via engaging interactions and influencing without authority.
- Project Management - The ability to manage tasks and activities and achieve their completion within the agreed framework, across regional and organizational boundaries.
- Innovation - The openness to new ideas and the ability to generate breakthrough solutions. Can develop, seek out, critically assess and implement new and value adding concepts.
- Dealing with Uncertainty - Can effectively cope with change; can shift gears comfortably; can decide and act without having the total picture; isn’t upset when things are up in the air; doesn’t have to finish things before moving on; can comfortably handle risk and uncertainty.
- Demonstrates acceptable statistical applications to assigned area.
- Consistent demonstration of safe lab practices and procedures.
Working at Afton
Who We Are - We're a diverse, global family of individuals, who share a passion for developing innovative solutions. We build our professional relationships on respect, integrity and a commitment to safety and quality. Just as these values apply to our professional relationships, they also apply to the way we feel about our neighbors and communities.
Our Work - At Afton, our innovative R&D programs lead to global growth. Our lubricant and fuel additives are among the most highly developed and widely used in the petroleum industry. Afton is a recognized and trusted supplier of driveline lubricant additives, engine oil additives, fuel additives and industrial lubricant additives.
Benefits / Compensation - Our employees are our most treasured asset and we are committed to recognizing and rewarding our employees for their commitment on an ongoing basis. In addition to the salary listed above, we offer the following benefits to all full-time employees:
- 100% Company funded Pension Plan
- 401k Savings Plan including a company match
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- Paid Vacation
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Dependent and Personal Accident Insurance
- Identity Theft insurance
Pay Range: $90,000 - $105,000
The pay range displayed on each job posting reflects the previously determined minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries; within the range, individual pay is determined by factors including job scope, job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Please note that the pay range listed in this posting reflects the base salary only and does not include the value of benefits that are provided in addition to the salary for this position.
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to the individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
See all 178+ R&D Chemist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new R&D Chemist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a R&D Chemist
Align your degree field to the role
Specialty occupation requires a degree directly related to the position, not just any science degree. A biochemistry or chemistry degree supports most R&D Chemist roles, but a general biology degree may trigger an RFE from USCIS asking you to justify the connection.
Target cap-exempt research employers first
Universities, nonprofit research institutes, and government laboratory contractors are exempt from the H-1B annual cap and lottery. R&D Chemist openings at these institutions let you start work faster, without waiting for the next fiscal year's selection cycle.
Verify prevailing wage tier before accepting an offer
Your employer's LCA must certify wages at the correct DOL level for your geographic area and experience. Cross-check the offered salary against the OFLC Wage Search using the specific chemistry SOC category before signing, so you don't discover a mismatch mid-filing.
Find sponsors through Migrate Mate's verified employer data
Filter R&D Chemist roles on Migrate Mate to see employers with confirmed LCA filing history in chemistry and materials science. This cuts out companies that say they're open to sponsorship but have no documented record of actually filing.
Get your foreign transcripts evaluated early
If your chemistry degree is from outside the U.S., get a credential evaluation from a NACES-member service before employer interviews begin. Delays in evaluation can stall the PERM or H-1B filing timeline by weeks, and some employers won't proceed without it in hand.
Clarify who files and when during offer negotiation
Confirm whether the employer will file a standard H-1B petition or initiate PERM for a green card track, and get the expected filing timeline in writing. R&D roles in pharma often bundle both, but the sequencing affects your work authorization start date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an R&D Chemist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Yes. R&D Chemist positions consistently qualify as specialty occupations because USCIS recognizes chemistry as a field where a bachelor's degree in a directly related discipline is a standard minimum requirement. The O*NET profile for chemists supports this, and DOL LCA disclosure data shows active filings in pharmaceutical, materials, and specialty chemical industries year over year.
Which visa types are realistic for a foreign-national R&D Chemist seeking U.S. employment?
H-1B is the primary path for R&D Chemists at private companies, with an annual cap and lottery. Cap-exempt employers, including universities and nonprofit research organizations, can file H-1B petitions outside the lottery. TN visa is available to Canadian and Mexican nationals if the role fits the USMCA chemist category. J-1 visa research scholar status works for academic postdoctoral positions with a designated sponsor. EB-2 and EB-3 green card paths are common for experienced chemists once sponsored by a full-time employer.
How do I find R&D Chemist jobs where employers have actually sponsored visas before?
Search Migrate Mate for R&D Chemist roles filtered by verified sponsorship history. Employers listed there have confirmed LCA filings on record, so you're not guessing at willingness to sponsor. Pharmaceutical and specialty chemical companies are the most active filers in this occupation.
Can an employer sponsor an R&D Chemist for a green card instead of just an H-1B?
Yes. Many pharmaceutical and industrial chemistry employers initiate PERM labor certification through DOL to sponsor chemists for EB-2 or EB-3 green cards, often running the green card process in parallel with H-1B status. EB-2 requires an advanced degree or exceptional ability; EB-3 skilled worker requires at least two years of experience. Country of birth affects how long priority date backlogs will delay final approval, particularly for applicants from India and China.
Does a three-year chemistry degree from outside the U.S. satisfy specialty occupation requirements?
It can, but you need a credential evaluation from a NACES-member service confirming U.S. equivalency to a four-year bachelor's degree. USCIS accepts equivalency evaluations for H-1B specialty occupation purposes. Some officers scrutinize three-year degrees more closely, so a detailed evaluation that maps coursework to U.S. degree requirements reduces the risk of an RFE on educational credentials.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored R&D Chemist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.