Research and Development Scientist 1
The R&D Scientist 1 at Confidential Client conducts hands-on laboratory research and development to create and improve product formulations, primarily in a manufacturing setting. This entry-level role involves experimental design, data collection, color matching, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to support product innovation and compliance with quality and safety standards.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a hands-on Research and Development Scientist 1 to support formulation development, product testing, and laboratory operations at their Gibbstown, NJ facility. This entry-level role focuses on laboratory work, data collection, and support of product development and scale-up activities. The role offers clear growth opportunities into project leadership and deeper technical responsibilities.
Compensation & Schedule
Confidential Client provides a competitive salary range based on experience.
- Salary range: $60,000 - $80,000 per year (commensurate with experience)
- Schedule: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday–Friday (possible 4x10 flex)
- Employment type: Full-time
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in maintaining the quality system: manage batch cards, QCAs, COAs, and retains.
- Help prepare and maintain laboratory SOPs and test methods.
- Execute assigned experiments, collect data, and prepare reports/project summaries.
- Create product specifications for developing samples.
- Maintain physical and electronic lab documentation and standards.
- Develop and verify formulas and identify scale-up parameters for plant manufacture.
- Match colors across cosmetic mediums (including fingernail coatings) using spectrophotometry and related software.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment; participate in general lab upkeep.
- Perform and record product and packaging stability testing per GLP guidelines.
- Use New Product Launch software for basic formulation/data review tasks.
- Perform cost analyses of formulations and test raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
- Produce customer specialty samples as needed.
- Work safely with hazardous chemicals and wastes; follow PPE and safety procedures.
- Perform additional duties/tasks as requested by management.
What We’re Looking For
- 0–2 years’ laboratory experience (1+ year preferred, ideally in manufacturing environments).
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
- Comfortable performing basic math: unit conversions, ratios, percentages.
- Strong organization, attention to detail, and decision-making ability.
- Computer proficiency; MS Office (Excel) experience required.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Must be able to wear required protective gear and follow PPE procedures.
- Desired: experience in pharmaceutical, chemical, or cosmetic industries.
Note: Candidates must pass an in-person color vision/matching assessment as part of the selection process. Confidential Client will consider reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities in accordance with applicable law; if you require an accommodation for the assessment, please indicate this during the application process.
Safety, Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Work primarily in a laboratory setting within a manufacturing facility.
- Typical physical demands: walk, stand, sit, handle small objects and laboratory equipment; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.
- Potential exposure to moderate noise, moving equipment, light fumes, or airborne particles. Adherence to safety protocols, PPE, and environmental procedures is required.
- Occasional travel may be required for audits, inspections, or conferences.
Why Join
- Hands-on R&D experience with clear career progression.
- Competitive pay and benefits (details provided by Confidential Client during hiring).
- Collaborative environment that partners R&D with Quality, Regulatory, Sales, and Manufacturing.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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