Quality and Development Chemist

The Development and Quality Chemist is an experienced researcher/formulator of household/automotive chemicals. Shows the ability to look at different brands' gaps and develop products based on those gaps or through customer driven sales data. Responsible for overall lab operations and developing testing methodologies associated with proper chemistry or chemical composition in each finished good. This includes product quality to workmanship standards and specification, the performance of day-to-day monitoring, testing and initial start-up authorization; all by utilizing instrumental analysis to ensure reliability and conformance to specifications.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Quality/Lab:
• Perform chemical tests, document results, and review data for raw materials, parts, or finished goods to measure product performance under a variety of conditions.
• Write and implement control tools such as check list for production line, warehouse conditions, regulatory requirements, subcontractor requirements, 3rd party audits, raw material deliveries, and maintain quality control manual.
• Performs routine inspection, testing and calibration procedures to determine conformance of instruments used to test raw materials, formula BOM, packaging and finished goods to their specifications and maintains historical records.
• Set-up and operate test equipment as required, to accurately test and measure received, in process, and final product goods.
• Prepare record of inspection documentation and test reports as required.
• Develops & Shares key KPI results with management team.
• Training, mentoring and supervising lab staff (permanent and temporary)
• Routes nonconforming parts, subassemblies, and assemblies to proper authority for disposition and corrective action.
• Responsible for the Hazardous Waste Management program. Follow all MPCA rules and regulations.
• Reviews and investigates all customer concerns, complaints and returns to ensure all corrective actions are implemented or disposition of product is addressed in a timely fashion.
• Provide technical support to customer service/support as well as production.
• Maintain proper chemical safety procedures on site, including SDS's, protective safety equipment (showers, eyewash, etc.) and maintain knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and archive reports when deviation from policy is necessary. Also has the ability to conduct root cause analysis, suggest corrective and preventative actions.
• Author and train both production and quality employees on SOPs.
• Development/ABW Chemist:
• Responsible for initiating project concepts, developing objectives, planning and assigning priorities, and completing multiple projects under minimal supervision.
• Independently investigate/resolve research problems/scale up issues.
• Communicate with customers on technical aspects as well as regulatory and performance.
• Utilize and follow relevant legal requirements, regulations and product development standards.
• Scale-up of approved formulations, to include identification of critical process variables.
• Troubleshoot production issues and address batch variations.
• Set product specifications and write compounding procedures.
• Supervise and coordinate first time batches.
• Provide specifications and other information to QC to receive and test new ingredients and finished goods.
• Test stabilities and monitor testing statuses.
• Provide paperwork for new formulas and new raw materials to operations.
• Research product formulations and properties and interactions of raw materials.
• Qualify new and alternative sources of raw materials.
• Interpret results of laboratory findings and assess risks involved in new products and communicate findings to sales and upper management.
• Periodically confirm and investigate product formulation alterations to meet a shifting raw material market.
• Remain up to date and current on trends in the retail market and trends on formulations materials, ingredients, etc.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Advanced formulation skills and technical knowledge
• Thorough understanding of federal and state regulations
• Drives creative research and strategic recommendations for product development
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, in a fast-paced environment under short deadlines, tolerance for business ambiguity; the ability to thrive under quickly changing situations; adaptable, with ability to meet short turnaround times.
• Methodological mindset to test new ideas and work towards valid results.
• Proven ability to manage external suppliers and ensure top value and performance for the organization
• Self-motivated and able to operate independently, as well as work effectively with others
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• High level of initiative, innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally & at all levels within the organization including senior leadership
• Exceptional attention to detail and high level of accuracy & organization
• Ability to work as part of a team and excel independently in fast-paced environment
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing policies and procedures
• Demonstrated leadership skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• BS in Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related sciences with 4+ years of formulating household/automotive chemical products.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This role is situated in a dynamic plant environment. In the course of performing job responsibilities, the employee actively engages in standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Additionally, there is a regular need for sitting, climbing, or maintaining balance. Occasional lifting or movement of items weighing up to 50 pounds is also part of the job requirements.

We are an EEOC/AA Employer. An industry leader, FMP offers well-balanced compensation and benefits programs, which may include medical, dental, vision, life, 401K, profit sharing, paid holidays/vacation/sick time, STD/LTD, + much more. Salary is based on experience and job performance.