Principal Scientist, Global Refrigerant Program Lead Job (Home Based, Home, US)

Principal Scientist, Global Refrigerant Program LeaderThermal Management & Sustainable RefrigerantsMake an Impact on the Future of Sustainable CoolingArkema is seeking a Global Refrigerant Program Leader to drive the development and global adoption of next‑generation, sustainable refrigerants. In this highly visible leadership role, you will shape technology strategy, influence global standards, and collaborate with customers and partners to accelerate innovation in thermal management.This position offers a unique opportunity to combine deep technical expertise with global leadership, impacting product development, customer solutions, and Arkema’s external reputation in the refrigerants industry.Reporting & Organizational ContextReports directly to the Global R&D Director, Fluorochemicals (France)Functional reporting line to the R&D Director, Downstream / Applications (King of Prussia, PA)Part of the U.S. subsidiary of a large, multinational chemical company with a strong commitment to safety and sustainabilityYour Role at a GlanceAs the Global Refrigerant Program Leader, you will:Lead the thermal management technology platform on a global scaleDrive the development and commercialization of sustainable refrigerant solutionsServe as Arkema’s technical voice with customers, partners, and industry organizationsSpend approximately one‑third of your time in external-facing leadership, representing Arkema in trade associations and conferencesKey ResponsibilitiesTechnology & Strategy LeadershipDefine and execute Arkema’s global technical strategy for refrigerants, aligned with sustainability and growth objectivesDevelop and implement technology, product, and project roadmaps in partnership with Business Development and MarketingCoordinate global R&D activities across regions to ensure alignment, execution excellence, and speed to marketInnovation & Intellectual PropertyInitiate, protect, and defend new and existing intellectual property, working closely with the legal teamDrive innovation through both internal research and external collaborationsCustomer & Industry EngagementAct as the primary technical interface with key OEM customers, co‑suppliers, and partnersDemonstrate the value of Arkema refrigerants within customer operations and applicationsRepresent Arkema in key industry committees, trade associations, and national/international technical conferencesCross‑Functional CollaborationLead the thermal management platform in close coordination with the Business ManagerPartner with Marketing to identify new project opportunities and align global resources accordinglySafety & Operational ExcellenceChampion Arkema’s strong safety culture, ensuring safe practices across all technical and operational activitiesRequired QualificationsPh.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field with 10–15 years of industrial experience in refrigeration and fluid chemistry or a Master’s degree with equivalent industrial experienceProven experience in thermal management, HVACR, or related industriesStrong knowledge of thermodynamics and modern computational engineering tools such as ASPEN, REFPROP, or equivalentExperience working in a global, matrixed organization is strongly preferredWhat Sets You ApartTechnical & Business ImpactDemonstrated track record of new product commercialization, driven through close customer interactionSuccessful leadership of complex, cross‑functional projects from concept to marketCommunication & InfluenceExcellent written and oral communication skills, including technical presentations and conference speakingStrong interpersonal skills with a collaborative, networking mindsetAbility to influence across cultures, functions, and seniority levelsLeadership & MindsetSelf‑starter with exceptional time management, project leadership, and decision‑making skillsProven commitment to strong safety practices and responsible innovationWhy Join Arkema?Building on its unique set of expertise in materials science, Arkema offers a portfolio of first-class technologies to address ever-growing demand for new and sustainable materials. With the ambition to become in 2024 a pure player in Specialty Materials, the Group is structured into three highly innovative segments dedicated to Specialty Materials - Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions. Arkema offers cutting-edge technological solutions to meet the challenges of, among other things, new energies, access to water, recycling, urbanization and mobility, and fosters a permanent dialogue with all its stakeholders. The Group reported sales of $10.6 billion in 2021, and operates in 55 countries with 20,500 employees. How this role will have an impact:Be at the forefront of sustainable refrigerant innovation with global impactGain high visibility across R&D, business leadership, and the broader industryWork within a safety‑driven, values‑based organization that invests in people, technology, and long‑term growthCo