Evonik Takes Chemistry into the Community in Mobile, AL

Courtesy of Evonik Corporation

Since putting down roots in Mobile, AL, in 1973, Evonik Corp. has grown into one of the area’s larger employers and become an integral part of the community. Today, the local campus has 27 operating units and more than 1,000 employees and resident contractors, making Mobile the largest North American site for the multinational chemical company headquartered in Germany. 

The products Evonik makes locally enhance the lives of people and animals across the globe, from the lightweight foams used in race cars, airplanes and surfboards to functional feed additives for farm animals. And while complex chemical formulations are at the heart of these products, it’s the chemistry among its workforce that really powers Evonik. 

Building a Career and a Life in Mobile

Plant and Project Engineer Carsen Grant joined Evonik in July 2021 after completing her chemical engineering degree at Auburn University. 

“For the first two years, I was part of a rotational development program that’s meant for people right out of school,” Grant says. 

Courtesy of Evonik Corporation

As part of the program, she worked in different technical areas across multiple cities, including a stint in Germany. While Grant focused on environmental health and safety in college, she was drawn to production during her rotations. 

“I really like the day-to-day operations and having a shared goal of making the product and doing it safely,” Grant says of her work in Mobile. 

“In my opinion, Evonik Mobile is the best site because it has so many employees. At any time, there are 15 to 20 other young engineers,” she says, adding both the company and city offer plenty of ways to connect. “It’s a good work-life balance.” 

Supportive Corporate Culture 

Chemical Operator Eduardo Gonzalez-Rivera had 15 years of manufacturing experience before making the move to Evonik. 

“I had a friend working at Evonik,” Gonzalez-Rivera says. “He told me that he loved it and coming to work here was the best decision he ever made.” 

After joining the team in November 2021, Gonzalez-Rivera agrees with his friend’s assessment. “The work culture is way different here. They take care of their employees and want them to be happy, and you can feel it when you walk through the gates,” he says. 

Courtesy of Evonik Corporation

Gonzalez-Rivera appreciates the many benefits Evonik offers, from vacation time to support for community outreach and volunteer work. He also values the amount of ongoing training, education and safety protocols to make sure employees feel confident and safe. 

“It’s a great culture,” Gonzalez-Rivera says. “Everybody works well together. Everybody gets along. It’s really a privilege to be an employee of Evonik.” 

Join the Team

From engineers and technical positions to administrative roles and shift workers, a diverse talent pool fuels Evonik’s success. Learn more about the company and available career opportunities at Careers.Evonik.com/en.