Head R&D – Chemicals

1.Role Overview
To lead the Research & Development function of the organization by ensuring quality assurance, raw material validation, product innovation, and process improvement. The role 

focuses on developing new refractory formulations, optimizing existing processes, and ensuring all products meet technical and customer specifications.
2.Key Responsibilities

• Ensure Quality Control and Assurance of all incoming raw materials, fuels, binders, additives, and oils.
• Approve and authorize the use of raw materials and additives only after verifying their physical, chemical, and thermal properties.
• Decide mould dimensions and tolerances based on product specifications and customer requirements.
• Design and optimize composition formulas in line with customer needs and standard specifications.
• Select and evaluate alternative raw materials to improve product performance and cost efficiency.
• Lead new product development initiatives and R&D trials for refractory and ceramic materials.
• Conduct research and experiments to enhance product strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Approve quality deviations in final products when within permissible limits or recommend corrective actions.
• Define and monitor drying, tempering, and firing temperature ranges for different product categories.
• Oversee internal and final inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Supervise packing, palletization, stenciling, and identification processes to ensure product traceability.
• Monitor and improve process control in green stage production to enhance final product yield.
• Ensure adherence to safety and PPE usage norms, especially while handling powders, binders, and chemicals.
• Collaborate with production, QC, and project teams to align innovation with plant capability.
• Maintain detailed documentation of R&D trials, test reports, and material analysis results. 

3.Qualifications & Experience

• M.Sc. / M.Tech. in Chemistry / Material Science / Ceramic Engineering
• 15+ years of experience in R&D, Quality, and Process Development in refractory/ ceramic/mineral-based industry

4.Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Deep understanding of ceramic and refractory chemistry
• Expertise in material testing (physical, chemical, and thermal)
• Knowledge of ISO / BIS / ASTM testing standards
• Project management and documentation skills
• Leadership and team mentoring capability
• Cross-functional coordination and innovation mindset

5.Working Conditions

• Based at Fortis Chemical Pvt Ltd, Jharsuguda, Odisha
• Laboratory and plant-based work environment
• Regular exposure to high-temperature materials, powders, and binders (PPE mandatory)
• Occasional extended hours during R&D trials or quality audits