Research and Development Scientist 1

Keystone Industries•Gibbstown, NJ

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Scientist is responsible for conducting research, developing new products, improving existing formulations, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This role involves designing and/or executing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams, including Quality, Regulatory, Sales, and Manufacturing. At the entry level, the role focuses on hands-on laboratory work, data collection, and supporting larger research initiatives. As experience grows, responsibilities expand to include project leadership, problem-solving, and innovation strategy. Senior-level scientists contribute to long-term research goals, mentor junior team members, and play a key role in driving technical advancements and business objectives. This role at all levels requires a detail-oriented, collaborative, and innovative contributor.

Requirements

1 year lab or directly related experience, ideally in a manufacturing environment.
Must pass in-person color test to be considered.
0-2 years’ experience in a laboratory environment.
Strong communication skills in English (both written and verbal) to understand and follow procedures, work instructions, and safety guidelines.
Good mathematical skills with the ability to perform unit conversions, calculate ratios, and determine percentages accurately.
Good organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
Good decision-making skills.
Computer proficient.
Proficiency with MS Office - especially Excel.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, independent or team-oriented environment.
Must be capable of wearing all required protective gear and adhering to all PPE procedures.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in pharmaceutical or chemical industry.

Responsibilities

Assist in maintaining the quality system, including but not limited to managing batch cards, QCAs, COAs, and retains.
Assist in the preparation and maintenance of laboratory SOPs and test methods.
Complete assignments, projects and prepare reports/project summaries, as required.
Create product specifications for samples that are in development.
Create, maintain, and organize standards, physical laboratory notebook, and electronic documentation.
Develop and verify formulas.
Identify important scale up parameters and plant equipment to safely manufacture new formulations.
Match colors in various cosmetic mediums including fingernail coatings.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
Participate in general upkeep of the laboratory.
Perform and maintain records for product and packaging stability.
Perform basic formula generation/data review tasks in New Product Launch software.
Perform cost analysis of formulations.
Perform stability testing for color fading and product stability per GLP guidelines.
Produce customer specialty samples as necessary.
Test and evaluate raw materials, intermediates and finished products.
Under the guidance of senior laboratory staff, develop products to meet customer needs.
Utilize appropriate spectrophotometric techniques and software as needed to match and document color.
Work safely with hazardous chemicals and waste.
Perform additional duties/tasks as needed or requested by management.
Comply with all safety regulations; maintains a safe work environment at all times .
Adhere to always wearing the proper PPE/Safety equipment.
Understand and comply with all written safety, health, and environmental procedures.
Attend all required scheduled Health, Safety and Environmental training sessions.
Participate in required Health, Safety and Environmental initiatives and programs.
Perform required administrative functions related to Health, Safety and Environmental functions such as completing forms, checklists, and log sheets.