Job Description for Industrial Chemicals Development (WORKS)
Our field of work extends to every corner of society.
We quickly identify hidden needs in the world and transform them into tangible forms through the power of materials. We will introduce the creative process that starts with a single idea and brings to life products used all over the world.
Research and development of new materials
Based on the know-how cultivated in foam manufacturing, we are challenging the possibilities of new materials that go beyond the conventional urethane foam by highly integrating new raw material selection, molecular-level structural control, and foaming process technology. In recent years, we have also been tackling challenges related to sustainability, such as utilizing plant-derived raw materials and establishing new recycling technologies. We are designing the materials of the future that balance the global environment with high functionality.
Product improvement and optimization
Polyurethane foam is a versatile material that can be compounded and manufactured in a variety of ways. To meet the challenging demands of our customers, we combine the functionality of this material with the know-how of that technology, drawing from our vast accumulated knowledge, like putting together a puzzle. In the dilemma where improving one performance aspect may diminish another, painstaking verification is essential to find the optimal balance. After much trial and error, we create a synergy of knowledge and refine it into a product that perfectly matches the customer's requirements. The sense of accomplishment is exceptional.
Development of evaluation and analysis technologies
Our R&D center is at the forefront of technology that visualizes invisible phenomena. In addition to general evaluation equipment, we use specialized equipment to examine materials from every angle, including molecular structure identification using spectroscopic analysis and three-dimensional structural analysis of cells (urethane bubbles) using X-ray CT, etc. Our mission is to transform the complex challenges faced by our customers into concrete data. For phenomena that are not easily solved, we unravel the correlations between various data and identify bottlenecks to derive a sure path to solving the problem.
The rewards of developing industrial chemical products
Applying over 70 years of refined urethane technology, we create high-value-added materials that solve latent challenges in a wide range of industries. Through the challenge of developing new materials, involving repeated prototype testing and real-world evaluation, you will fully experience the excitement of manufacturing, broaden your horizons as an engineer, and have ample opportunities for significant growth in this environment.
After much trial and error, there is a sense of accomplishment in being able to manipulate materials exactly as you wish with your own hands.
The development of new materials is a constant struggle against theoretical expectations. We grapple with the contradiction of "improving one performance aspect inevitably degrading another," requiring perseverance to conduct hundreds of tests and optimize the process to the extreme. However, the sense of accomplishment when we finally control the material as intended and overcome a difficult challenge through technology, after endless trial and error, is exceptional. It's a moment when knowledge and experience connect, and we truly feel we've grown as engineers.
Meeting global expectations and building trusting relationships.
Our collaborative partners extend beyond Japan to global clients and companies. We work with our clients to find the optimal solution, providing technical data and evidence. We overcome high hurdles that even our clients themselves were unsure of, building deep trust, and then receive words of gratitude like, "Thank you, you really helped us." That overwhelming sense of accomplishment is the greatest joy of working as an engineer on a global stage.
We collaborate with various professionals to take on the challenge of achieving "significant results" that cannot be accomplished alone.
Product development is carried out by teams involving many experts, including those from in-house manufacturing and sales departments, as well as external research institutions and partner companies. Sometimes, disagreements arise between the development team, which prioritizes quality, and the manufacturing and sales team, which emphasizes cost and mass production. However, it is by combining the wisdom of each team's professionals that new ideas emerge that overcome obstacles. This collaborative process, which brings together diverse knowledge, cultivates a strong driving force as an engineer and fosters a network of contacts that will be a lifelong asset.
Desired Person Profile
We are looking for individuals who, with a strong foundation in chemistry, are driven by their own initiative to deepen their technical skills. The development of industrial chemical products is a field that demands a high level of expertise. Therefore, a basic understanding of chemistry and materials science is a prerequisite. However, more important than knowledge is a spirit of inquiry that pursues the "why?" and a proactive attitude towards learning. We are looking for enthusiastic engineers who can work together with others to find the right answers to questions that have no pre-determined solutions.
Starting with customer value, we connect "technology and people" and see things through to the end without backing down - Owner-centered development -
What we seek are individuals who start with customer value, connect technology and people, and have the ability to see things through to the end. It's not just about developing technology; it's about understanding customer challenges and needs, collaborating with people inside and outside the company, and taking responsibility for the project from start to finish. Even young employees, if they have the passion to create something new, can generate their own ideas, test them, and face high goals and challenging problems head-on. Through these experiences, they will hone not only their technical skills but also their judgment and communication abilities.
By mastering this sense of ownership, you will transcend the role of a mere engineer and grow into a leader who drives entire projects and a core member of the business. You will be able to thrive as a professional with strong charisma, someone who is sought after both inside and outside the company, with people saying, "We want to create new value together with you."
A spirit of inquiry that delves into the "why?" and gets to the heart of the matter.
It's essential to not only focus on the surface of things, but also to deeply understand the underlying principles and mechanisms (logic and data). Instead of simply concluding that experimental results are "somehow better/worse," it's crucial to thoroughly investigate "why did this number occur?" and "what are the reasons for the changes?" Staying attuned to global trends and social issues like carbon neutrality, and enjoying the process of repeatedly formulating hypotheses and testing them in response to unknown questions, will accelerate your growth as an engineer.
By continuously going through this "hypothesis testing" cycle, you will acquire overwhelming applicability skills that are not dependent on specific products and are applicable anywhere. Even if the materials or themes you work with change, you will be able to instantly grasp the essence of things and become a strong engineer who can derive reproducible optimal solutions, excelling in various fields.
The ability to involve those around you and act with a sense of urgency.
The development environment is constantly evolving. You can't stay confined to your desk or laboratory; you need to actively move things forward by visiting manufacturing sites, sales planning departments, other departments, and even customers, confirming the "actual product and situation" firsthand. We're looking for someone who can drive projects forward with speed, secure cooperation from others, and demonstrate strong leadership.
By mastering this "agility to engage those on the ground," you will grow into a global leader who can spearhead the resolution of various challenges both domestically and internationally. You will be able to instantly build relationships with overseas offices and teams with different cultures, and play a key role in moving the organization to the next stage with a sense of urgency.
Flexible "straightforwardness" and "dedication" to craftsmanship
It's about balancing the flexibility to accept others' opinions with an unwavering commitment to quality and technology. The ability to readily accept new knowledge and advice from customers and other departments, and to update oneself accordingly, is essential for growth. On the other hand, it's equally important to never compromise in manufacturing and to have a strong commitment to one's work, always striving to make things better. We believe that those who can approach their work with sincerity while maintaining this sense of balance are the ones who will thrive as engineers leading the next generation at Archem.
By achieving a high level of balance between honesty and dedication, they will grow into "pillars of the organization" who pass on Archem 's DNA (technical prowess and pride) to the next generation. While continuously updating themselves in line with changing times and environments, they will uphold the principles that Archem will never compromise on. Such individuals will become "role models" that their juniors look up to and support the organization.
Related academic disciplines : ACADEMICS
chemistry
machine
Electrical and Electronic
engineering
etc.Message from a senior employee
Since joining the company, I have learned firsthand the entire process of manufacturing, from product development and manufacturing technology to quality assurance. In particular, I have worked for many years on the development of "industrial urethane sealing materials." Sealing materials are simple products that prevent the intrusion of air and water from the outside, but meticulous adjustments are essential, from molecular design to the fineness of the bubbles. Urethane is often thought to be difficult to ensure airtightness due to its tiny holes, but I find the process of finding the optimal solution to be very rewarding. The excitement of seeing something I designed become a "product" in the factory and sent out into society, and the sense of accomplishment when I see our company's products in the city, are exceptional. I look forward to sharing with you the forefront of manufacturing that does not compromise on even the smallest details, in line with Archem 's philosophy of "spreading comfort to every situation around the world."
