Research and Development Formulation Chemist

Excelsior Nutrition Inc•Anaheim, CA

5d•$20 - $22

About The Position

The Research and Development Formulation Chemist performs project duties supporting product development for a contract manufacturer of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. The work includes FPS processes, formulation, bill of materials database maintenance, record-retention SOPs, and the new-product process. The role supports product development from concept through post-launch analysis and coordinates with customers, suppliers, vendors, management, and internal departments.

Requirements

M.S. or B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, or another physical science.
2–3 years of experience formulating new and innovative personal care products, preferably in a contract manufacturing environment.
Ability to multitask and handle 4–5 bench projects at a time.
Ability to thrive in a team environment.
Working knowledge of claim substantiation.
Current knowledge of ingredient technology and familiarity with working within customer and international requirements.
Extensive knowledge of laboratory procedures, test instrumentation, and experimental design.
Advanced writing, reading, and math skills, including statistical analysis.
Ability to interpret, analyze, reason, and plan.

Responsibilities

Interpret customer explanations, descriptions, and requests and translate them into chemical components and formula combinations.
Meet with suppliers and technical experts to collect product information, learn about new developments, and formulate appropriate applications.
Assemble chemicals and materials into laboratory batches and test formulas for efficacy and performance.
Modify, substitute, and reformulate materials to meet customer expectations and quality requirements while maintaining low formulation costs.
Evaluate alternate chemical suppliers.
Enter and review formulas in the computer system.
Troubleshoot formula issues related to manufacturing and compounding.
Revise priorities to manage deadlines according to production demands, customer needs, and company interests.
Maintain professional expertise through individual study, continuing education, and professional development.
Communicate progress, problems, and needs to management, vendors, and customers as appropriate.
Assist in managing product development from concept through post-launch analysis.
Participate in new-product concept brainstorming meetings.
Serve as the primary liaison with overseas vendors for product development, including artwork, product specifications, sculpting, and sample approval.
Negotiate pricing with overseas vendors.
Set up item numbers and other development information in the item master, and update and maintain it.
Ensure product and packaging samples are accurate and obtain approvals.
Ensure deadlines are met for obtaining samples for tradeshows and licensors.
Initiate collateral requests with the Creative Department and/or outside service vendors.
Work with the Quality Compliance department on compliance issues.