Research and Development Scientist 1

We are passionate about our employees and strive to create a stimulating, motivating environment with a culture that fosters mutual respect, teamwork, and career development. In addition to competitive starting salaries, we offer a wide variety of benefits, perks, and programs to support both professional and personal goals.

Location: Gibbstown, NJ (08027)
Schedule: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday-Friday (potential to flex to 4/10s)
Pay Range: $60,000–$80,000, based on experience and qualifications

About the Role

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.

Responsibilities

• Assist in maintaining the quality system, including 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 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 to match and document color.
• Work safely with hazardous chemicals and waste.
• Perform additional duties/tasks as needed or requested by management.

Requirements

• 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 proficiency, especially with MS Office (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.
• Must pass an in-person color test to be considered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Engineering, or similar).
• Previous experience working in the pharmaceutical or chemical industry (desired).

Safety

• Comply with all safety regulations and maintain 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.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Physical Demands: Employee is required to walk; stand; sit; use hands and fingers to manipulate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms to operate a computer, office equipment, and various laboratory equipment while performing laboratory work; and occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs. Minimal need to balance, stoop, bend, kneel, or climb.

Work Environment: This position is located in a laboratory setting within a manufacturing facility. Noise intensity level: quiet to low. Employees will frequently need to enter lab and manufacturing areas, which may include exposure to moderate noise, moving equipment, and hazardous contaminants. When entering these areas, employees must adhere to all applicable safety protocols, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements. Occasional travel may be required for audits, inspections, external site visits, or industry conferences.