Chemist I - Research & Development

Genera l Description:

The R&D Sr. Chemist is responsible to complete projects based on workflow assigned by R&D Technical Accounts Manager. Conducts variety of chemical and physical laboratory testing on lab batches, finished goods, prototype formulas and cosmetic raw materials for such purposes as product and process development, product stability, quantitative and qualitative performance analysis. Initiates development process on new products

Specific Responsibilities & Duties:

• Promotes a safe working environment and adheres to Environmental Health and Safety procedures, company safety rules, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP’s), Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP’s), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) in line with the company’s objectives and policies at all times.
• Completes daily batches based on Optiva Workflows assigned by Management.
• Formulating new products (OTC and Non-OTC).
• Creates and validates product specifications. Prepares and documents in writing, specifications for various batches. Maintains OTC files
• Researches new chemicals and technology. Compiles and reviews technical data.
• Maintains OTC files, documents specifications for various batches. Prepares documents (Evaluation Sheet, C of A) and labels for submission.
• Collects scientific date and communicates technical information to project managers
• Maintains accurate real time formulas entries into Optiva and on Lab Notebooks ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Oversees and supervises pilot batches and first three. Monitors Compounding personnel and makes recommendations to improve process.
• Color matches batches when needed. Troubleshoots, adjusts batches, and validate specifications, as necessary
• Performs and monitors stability testing on R&D batches when needed.
• Collaborates and supports process engineering
• Request new raw material samples.  Test and release new raw material samples.
• Calibrates R&D Lab Equipment as needed.

• Assists other Lab Personnel with formulations and daily tasks.  Delegates daily R&D activities/tasks, if needed. Supervises and/or trains new and existing R&D Chemists.  Provides a back-up role to Team Leaders.

• Assists R&D Management with company audits or in preparation of audits.
• Attend meetings and seminars with various sales representatives and vendors.
• Flexible and willing to perform other duties as needed (fill lab batches into components, prepare evaluation sheets and labels).
• Other duties may be assigned by the R&D Manager.

Physical Requirements

• Capable of lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Capable of standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods
• Occasionally walking between buildings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, Chemistry and/or Biochemistry is required. MS is preferred
• Minimum 8+ years’ R&D Chemistry Formulation role in Consumer Products; preferably in cosmetics process manufacturing or an FDA regulated industry.
• Experience in writing functional testing SOP’s following good documentation practices (GDP) and Good Lab Practices (GLP).
• Extensive knowledge in consumer trends, product innovations and development process.
• Superior knowledge of product ingredient deck listing and labeling requirements.
• Superior knowledge of rules and regulation (FDA, CTFA, PCPC) for global formulation.
• Extensive knowledge in the aspects of Compounding, Production, Regulatory, and Quality.
• Extensive Formulation experience in developing Hair Care, Personal Care, Fragrance, and Skin Care products such as natural/clean Products, creams, lotions, waxes, non-aerosol, etc. using reverse engineer method, product duplication, and developing new product innovation is a plus. Experience in OTC product development is plus
• Strong technical foundation of formulated products including emulsions, surfactants, suspensions, structured liquids, and an understanding of material chemistry is preferred.
• Extensive Technical knowledge of chemistry, polymers, colorants, emulsions, surfactants, and other raw materials used in the cosmetic industry.
• Required Advanced reporting, designing and data analytic skills. Strong math skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.