Research Scientist - Formulations

About the Company

J.M. Huber Corporation is one of the largest privately held, family‑owned companies in the United States. Established in 1883, it is a diversified, global supplier of specialty and commodity chemicals, hydrocolloid solutions, engineered wood products and natural resources. The company generates approximately $3 billion in sales, employs about 4,000 people worldwide, and operates in more than 20 countries.

Position Summary

The Formulation Scientist develops, optimizes, and evaluates innovative formulations for fertilizers, biostimulants, adjuvants, plant growth regulators, biocontrols, and other specialty agricultural inputs. Based at the Innovation Center in Hanover, PA, this hands‑on individual contributor role supports products from initial concept through testing and manufacturing scale‑up, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to solve technical challenges, advance sustainable agricultural technologies, and support future business growth.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize agricultural product formulations.
• Evaluate raw materials, surfactants, emulsifiers, adjuvants, and other co‑formulants.
• Conduct compatibility, stability, shelf‑life, consistency, and performance testing.
• Apply analytical methods such as HPLC, GC‑MS, ICP‑OES, rheometry, viscometry, and spectroscopy.
• Support greenhouse and field evaluations and recommend formulation improvements.
• Partner with Manufacturing and Plant Operations to scale products from laboratory development to commercial production.
• Troubleshoot formulation and production challenges and implement practical solutions.
• Evaluate competitive products and emerging technologies to support innovation.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, technical reports, and compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Specialized/Technical Knowledge or Required Skills

• MS or PhD in Chemistry, Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with 2–5 years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree with 6 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with agricultural formulations, laboratory development, pilot‑scale testing, or manufacturing scale‑up preferred.
• Knowledge of emulsions, suspensions, dispersions, soluble concentrates, and formulation analytical methods.
• Familiarity with fertilizers, biostimulants, adjuvants, biologicals, or crop‑protection products preferred.
• Understanding of EPA, REACH, EU Fertilizer Regulation, or organic certification requirements is beneficial.
• Strong laboratory, problem‑solving, documentation, and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

Compensation

U.S. Market‑Based Salary Range for Research Scientist – Formulations: $85,400 – $110,900. In addition to base compensation, individuals may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus and profit‑sharing payout.

Benefits

Huber offers a comprehensive, competitive benefits package as detailed on the Huber Benefits Hub, emphasizing employee safety, health, well‑being, professional and personal development, and an inclusive workplace that respects core values, dignity, and respect.