Chief Scientist Job at Arab Potash Company, Jordan | RD&I Center

Arab Potash Company (APC) is the eighth largest potash producer worldwide by volume of production and the sole potash producer in the Arab World. It also has one of the best track records among Jordanian corporations in the areas of work safety, good governance, sustainable community development, and environmental conservation.

The Opportunity

APC strategically invests in research and development (R&D) to drive its innovation strategy and business development. This includes the construction of a $6 million Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) Center, which is to be completed by the end of 2023. The founding chief scientist of the RD&I Center will lead these strategic efforts and be part of an exciting new opportunity to drive APC’s innovation and business goals.

The Chief Scientist of the RD&I Center will lead the newly created RD&I Center and drive the research and development activities to achieve APC’s strategic goals for the RD&I Center. This role has direct responsibility for the R&D activities of APC, including hiring and managing research scientists and staff for the RD&I Center, planning, annual budgeting, and collaboratively managing research projects with internal and external partners. The successful candidate will set expectations for research staff and measure their productivity and progress towards R&D deliverables.

Duties

• Serve as the scientific leader in interdisciplinary, cross-departmental research that includes but is not limited to leading research scientists and staff, developing and resourcing research programs to achieve APC goals, and communicating with executive management.
• Drive innovation, enhance technical collaboration between APC business units, including the Technical Directorate, to set R&D goals and achieve them, and measure the effectiveness of R&D in achieving deliverables.
• Lead direct reports and mentor scientists, engineers, and staff of the RD&I Center by providing a clear vision, facilitating continuous improvement, and resourcing research capability.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduate degree preferred PhD degree or equivalent in Chemistry or relevant Engineering disciplines (e.g., Chemical, Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Ceramic Engineering) or related fields (Materials Science, Mineral Processing, etc.)
• Technical leadership and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong track record of generating intellectual property (patents or journal publications in reputable journals)
• Minimum 10 years of experience in R&D, preferred in potash and/or fertilizers industry.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in leading teams of engineers or scientists.
• Relevant work experience will include functional leadership, project management, technology planning, budgeting, and management and development of a team of direct reports.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with future directions in the fertilizer business.
• Demonstrated technical leadership and communication skills.

Working and living in Jordan

Living in Jordan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Experience the vibrant culture, explore historical sites such as Petra and the Dead Sea, and savor the delicious cuisine. The cost of living is reasonable, and the quality of life is high, with a range of recreational activities available, from exploring the desert landscapes to enjoying the bustling city life.

APC is committed to fostering a supportive work environment, offering competitive compensation packages, and providing opportunities for professional growth. If you’re ready to elevate your career while enjoying a rich cultural experience, seize this chance to make a lasting impact in Jordan as our R&D Manager. Join us on a journey of innovation and discovery!

(Chemical, Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Ceramic Engineering)