Senior Technologist, Hybrid Engines Research (Castrol) in Reading

This is a role within the Castrol organisation and the successful candidate will become part of the Castrol ring-fence. If you are part of the ring-fence, it is expected that your employment will move with Castrol to new ownership.

At Castrol, we're investing in the next generation of lubricant technologies to support more efficient, reliable and lower-carbon mobility. As a Senior Technologist within our Advanced Fluids Research team, we'll look to you to provide technical leadership in the development of lubricants for hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, range extenders and advanced internal combustion engine applications.

Working at the intersection of lubricant science and evolving powertrain technologies, we'll partner with colleagues across research, product development, testing and OEM engagement to build the understanding, test capabilities and technical insights needed to shape future Castrol products.

What we'll deliver together

• We will lead and deliver research programmes that deepen our understanding of lubricant performance in hybrid, range extender and ICE operating conditions, including the impact of fuel dilution, water contamination, lubricant ageing, friction, wear, fuel economy and emissions-related performance.
• Develop and apply representative test methods, including engine, vehicle, bench and tribology-based approaches, to understand lubricant behaviour under real-world operating conditions.
• Generate technical insights that support product development, technology roadmaps, OEM collaborations and customer discussions.
• Translate emerging powertrain technologies and vehicle usage trends into research priorities and differentiated lubricant solutions.
• Work closely with product development, testing, analytical, modelling and commercial teams to ensure research outcomes are converted into products, claims and customer value.
• Build strong relationships with OEMs, universities, research organisations and other external partners to access new capabilities, data and technical insight.
• Identify and protect intellectual property while sharing research findings through appropriate technical channels.
• Champion safe, compliant and high-quality experimental practices across all work.
• Support and develop colleagues through coaching, technical guidance and knowledge sharing.

What we're looking for

We're seeking an experienced researcher or technologist with a strong background in powertrain, lubricant or automotive research and a track record of delivering technical projects from concept through to actionable outcomes.

• A degree, or equivalent experience, in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Tribology or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding of internal combustion engines, hybrid powertrains, plug-in hybrid vehicles and range extender architectures.
• Experience designing, commissioning and interpreting engine tests, vehicle trials, bench tests, tribology studies or related experimental programmes.
• Knowledge of lubricant performance, degradation mechanisms, contamination effects, friction, wear and fuel economy performance.
• The ability to analyse complex data, draw robust conclusions and communicate recommendations clearly to a range of audiences.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners such as OEMs, suppliers, universities or engineering consultancies.
• Strong project leadership skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver research outcomes in an evolving environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

About the team

We are a multidisciplinary research team bringing together expertise in engineering, chemistry, tribology, modelling, electrification and lubricant technology. We work across a broad portfolio of programmes spanning hybrid and ICE lubricants, driveline fluids, battery thermal management, electrified powertrains, hydrogen technologies, energy management and sustainable mobility solutions.

By combining fundamental research with practical application, we help turn technical insight into products and technologies that create value for customers and shape the future of mobility.

Why join us?

At bp and Castrol, we foster an inclusive and collaborative environment where people are encouraged to learn, grow and contribute. We offer opportunities for professional development, competitive benefits, health and wellbeing support, and the chance to work with world-class research capabilities and industry-leading technical experts.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle.

Apply now!

Travel Requirement: Negligible travel should be expected with this role

Relocation Assistance: This role is not eligible for relocation

Remote Type: This position is a hybrid of office/remote working