Chemist - R&D- Aromair Research & Development

KDC One•New Albany, OH

About The Position

The Chemist is responsible for applicable new product development in the laboratory, from ideation through launch, following priorities assigned by the R&D Director, R&D Manager, or designate. The role documents laboratory activities and project progress, stability, and scale-up, and communicates with other departments, customers, and vendors. It also requires understanding and implementing GMP and other laboratory-related regulatory requirements. The Chemist develops and reformulates products, investigates technical issues, conducts stability and formula/packaging compatibility work, and supports the transition of formulas from the laboratory to manufacturing. The role creates and reviews technical documentation, helps resolve compounding issues, supports raw-material and vendor evaluation, and provides scientific expertise on ingredients, technology, packaging, and processes. It also contributes to patent work, industry awareness, and general laboratory upkeep.

Requirements

BS/BA in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related biological science.
2–4 years of hands-on formulation experience in air care/home care, preferably with highly fragranced products.
Understanding and experience with all stages of product development, from ideation through launch, including stability, safety, claims, regulatory requirements, scale-up, and transition to manufacturing/commercialization.
Ability to manage multiple projects and timelines efficiently.
Ability to proactively monitor, investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve formula stability, safety, and manufacturing issues.
Experience in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, such as private label or contract manufacturing.
Ability to work as a strong individual contributor without direct supervision.
Excellent written and verbal communication and problem-solving skills.
Ability to exercise sound, independent judgment.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
Good understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), regulations, and OSHA safety requirements.
Self-motivation and a strong work ethic.
Ability to match color visually; a color test is required.
Ability to work around fragrance daily.

Responsibilities

Execute new product development through all stages, from ideation through launch, according to assigned priorities.
Ensure the necessary technical resources are implemented to meet targets, deadlines, and formula-cost specifications in product development briefs.
Investigate and resolve research issues during development and anticipate issues that may arise in pilot-plant or manufacturing settings.
Match product color to internal and customer standards.
Reformulate existing products to improve cost, regulatory compliance, quality, and/or performance.
Maintain legible and accurate laboratory notebook records, including detailed experimental procedures.
Track projects against critical paths; communicate status and potential challenges and offer alternative solutions.
Ensure formulations comply with EPA, TSCA, CARB, and other relevant regulatory requirements.
Initiate and document stability and formula/packaging compatibility testing for new and reformulated products.
Write detailed reports summarizing results as requested by a manager, vendor, or customer.
Create, review, and approve technical documents supporting development projects, such as ingredient statements, formula cards, and patents.
Work with manufacturing and compounding teams to transition formulas from laboratory to plant scale and help develop finished-product specifications.
Work with batching to address compounding issues, including color correction and other problems.
Assist the supply chain group, as appropriate, in identifying, evaluating, and qualifying alternate raw materials and vendors.
Translate new ingredients, technologies, packaging, and processes into products or product concepts using scientific expertise.
Attend industry trade shows and seminars to stay informed about industry trends.
Provide technical assistance related to product formulas and processes through extensive interdepartmental interaction.
Evaluate patents and draft patent applications for unique formulation or ingredient applications.
Maintain the R&D laboratory, including supplies, routine sample disposal, and general cleaning.
Handle other responsibilities and special projects as assigned by the supervisor.