Sr. Associate, Chemistry

SC Johnson•Racine, WI

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

As the Senior Associate, Formulation, you will lead the technical formulation development of toilet care products in support of global brands, with a primary focus on gel technology. You will develop new products and line extensions while leading technology advancements that deliver consumer-preferred benefits. You will work across a portfolio of technologies that includes liquids, powders, gels, and solids. While your primary focus will be gel technology, you will also have opportunities to expand your knowledge and develop expertise across other formulation technologies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related scientific discipline with at least 4 years of relevant experience; or a master’s degree in a related scientific discipline with at least 2 years of relevant experience.
Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship for full-time employment.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the product development process and experience related to various formulation and delivery system technologies related to products (e.g., emulsion chemistry, gel formulation, polymer chemistry, reaction products, surfactants, solvents, builders, powder formulations)
Understanding of the functional properties, proper use, and the environmental impact of ingredients
Possess an understanding of regulatory processes, i.e., BPR registrations; experience
Provide innovative ideas and knowledge with a high degree of integrity, speed, and a results-oriented approach
Explore new technologies and materials, which may have application for product lines and ability to design experiments to evaluate the performance attributes of products
Scientific curiosity and the ability to solve technical problems related to formulation and manufacturing
Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to communicate accurately and concisely to multiple levels within the company
Proficient computer skills; will be required to become competent in the use of PIE

Responsibilities

Develop innovative formulations for new and existing Toilet Care products to improve product performance and address consumer needs.
Meet internal ingredient standards and industry best practices for safety, scientific significance, accuracy, and recordkeeping.
Conduct performance testing and draft technical bridging rationales to support product claims.
Optimize formulation ingredients to manage cost and availability while maintaining intended product functionality.
Monitor stability testing, stability testing for first production runs, and maintain thorough and concise records in compliance with good laboratory practices.
Prepare samples and track documentation for stability, micro-challenge, toxicological, clinical, and performance testing. Coordinate outside testing with appropriate resources as required.
Meet with chemical suppliers to be aware of new raw materials and potential secondary sourcing opportunities for raw materials.
Stay up-to-date on trade publications and other industry news sources for raw material information, regulatory updates, and educational opportunities.
Formulate with new raw materials and technologies through laboratory experimentation, record findings, and suggest applications.
Generate data, analyze data, and draw conclusions to make recommendations.
Prepare or coordinate preparation of sales samples or demonstrations for photography, trade shows, and other business needs.
Adhere to project milestones and launch timelines.
Input data requirements in PIE with accuracy and attention to detail and maintain good documentation in ELN.
Be present for pilot batches and first production runs as necessary depending on formulation and contract manufacturer capabilities
Work closely with cross functional team members on ensuring successful scale-up of laboratory formulations.
Serve as the product steward for gels, providing technical support to regional teams.
Obtain an awareness of regulatory and sustainability issues applicable to product launches
Follow general lab safety guidelines and maintain a clean, orderly work area
Travel to outside fillers and industry events as requested/necessary and determined by needs of the business and direction from management
Support sales team with customer questions and performance testing data
Work as a member of a fast-paced project team to create new products or product improvements that address consumer user criteria, needs, and insights
Utilize knowledge of experimental design DOE and statistics to efficiently select appropriate courses of action to meet business needs
Identify applicable new technologies through scientific and patent literature, external technical contacts, suppliers, and other relevant resources, and recommend opportunities to bring appropriate technologies in-house.
Utilize knowledge to contribute to the successful commercialization of new ideas driving consumer and corporate value