R&d Lab Technician

Job Title:

Applications Specialist

Job Description

The Applications Specialist supports research and development activities by performing laboratory testing, small-scale batching, and formulation work for agricultural, lawn, turf care, and related products. This role collaborates closely with a Formulations Chemist to develop, refine, and evaluate new and existing formulations, while also providing backup support for research and quality control testing of raw materials and finished products. The position focuses on designing, conducting, and documenting product performance experiments that support analytical assessments for sales and marketing teams.

Responsibilities

+ Perform laboratory tests on current formulas, new formulas, and competitor products to evaluate performance and quality.

+ Carry out formulation and synthesis processes for new products and re-formulated products, including small-scale batching and junior-level formulation work.

+ Use analytical equipment such as analytical balances, thermal instruments, pH measurement devices, Karl Fischer titration equipment, and other wet chemistry tools, and calibrate equipment as needed to ensure accurate results.

+ Conduct raw materials testing, in-process testing, and finished product testing as required to support research, development, and quality control activities.

+ Assist with the development and refinement of testing methods to improve accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of laboratory analyses.

+ Design, conduct, and document product performance experiments and comparisons for use in analytical assessments by sales and marketing departments.

+ Operate a wide range of laboratory and field-testing equipment to support product application studies in commercial agriculture, turf grass management, and growing media.

+ Serve as a backup resource for research and quality control functions related to raw materials and finished formulation approvals.

+ Document all testing data, observations, and corresponding information in a clear, accurate, and organized manner.

+ Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly laboratory environment, following established procedures and safety guidelines.

+ Support R&D projects for multiple business units under the corporate umbrella, including agricultural and lawn/turf care product lines.

+ Collaborate with chemists, lab technicians, and other team members to ensure projects progress efficiently and meet technical and quality expectations.

Essential Skills

+ Hands-on experience in an R&D laboratory environment, including exposure to research and development projects and lab-based testing.

+

Experience with small-scale batching, junior formulation, or chemical synthesis/formulation work.

+ Proficiency in wet chemistry techniques and laboratory practices.

+ Ability to use analytical equipment such as analytical balances, thermal instruments, pH measurement devices, Karl Fischer titration (KFT) equipment, and related laboratory instruments.

+

Experience with R&D lab testing, including raw material, in-process, and finished product testing.

+ Background in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.

+ Strong documentation skills with the ability to accurately record test data, methods, and results.

+ Ability to follow established methods, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines in a laboratory setting.

+ Comfort working under detailed, process-focused leadership and following precise instructions and standards.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Degree or coursework in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.

+ Experience as a junior formulator, formulator, or R&D lab technician.

+ Exposure to product applications in commercial agriculture, turf grass management, or growing media.

+ Familiarity with method development for laboratory testing.

+ Interest in career growth into chemist or advanced formulation roles within an expanding organization.

+ Ability to collaborate with sales and marketing teams by providing clear, data-driven experimental results.

+ Strong attention to detail and a quality-focused mindset in all laboratory activities.

Work Environment

The role is based in a brand-new…