R&D Manager

– Formulation Dietary Supplements Join Universal Nutrition and Shape the Future of Sports Nutrition! Universal Nutrition, a leader in sports nutrition manufacturing, is looking for a dynamic, hands‑on R&D Manager to drive innovation in formulation and lab operations. This on-site role in New Brunswick, NJ, offers an exciting opportunity to lead cutting‑edge product development while collaborating with a passionate team. The scientist will work under the direction of operations and in coordination with other departments to support, coordinate, and develop cutting‑edge nutrition (powders) and supplement products (tablets, capsules, and powders) for its existing brands.

The R&D Manager develops and maintains nutritional supplement formulations in various delivery formats (tablets, capsules, and powders) for launch in the US and international markets. The R&D Manager works collaboratively with various internal groups on product formulation, product/process development, scale up and commercialization of dietary supplement dosage forms. The R&D Manager will develop, expand, and manage internal programs and staff to collect relevant physical data on raw materials and finished product to improve manufacturability.

In addition, the R&D Manager will explore and conduct research in relevant technologies for product innovation and product/processes enhancement. The R&D Manager ensures formulations are high quality, cost effective, and meet brand guidelines.

• Lead the end‑to‑end development of new dietary supplement products (capsules, tablets, powders) from concept to commercialization.
• Enhance existing formulations and processes for better stability, taste, and manufacturability.
• Research and source high‑quality raw materials based on functionality, bioavailability, and compliance.
• Work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams to solve complex formulation and technical challenges with speed and robustness.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and manufacturing innovations.

• Expand and enhance lab capabilities to analyze physical and chemical properties of raw materials.
• Develop and implement testing protocols to assess powder flowability, particle size, hygroscopicity, and other characteristics that impact manufacturing.
• Use collected data to refine formulations and enhance production efficiency.
• Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and validation of lab equipment.

• Supervise and mentor lab technicians, fostering growth and technical expertise.
• Provide hands‑on training in formulation techniques, troubleshooting, and quality control.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, supply chain, sales and marketing to align product development with company objectives.
• Drive R&D project timelines, ensuring efficiency and innovation.

• Ensure all formulations comply with FDA, cGMP, NSF, and other regulatory requirements.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation, including formulation records, stability studies, and lab reports.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet departmental and company objectives.
• Represent Universal Nutrition at industry trade shows and conferences.
• Participate in any other projects and tasks as needed.

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a scientific discipline such as Food Science, Chemistry, Nutrition/Dietetics, or related field required.
• Five to ten years of formulation and R&D related experience in the dietary supplement industry.
• Hands‑on knowledge of solid dose and powders manufacturing equipment (tablet presses, capsule fillers, coating equipment, blenders, granulation and milling equipment) and an understanding of the manufacturing unit operations associated with each equipment type.
• Detail oriented, organized, and analytical with essential math skills for formulation.
• Self‑starter, team‑player, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and proficiency with Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States and must successfully pass a background check and drug screening.

Opportunities to expand your expertise and leadership in a growth‑oriented company. We offer a comprehensive benefits package. To support the health of our employees and their dependents we provide:

• Paid vacation & sick leave
• Medical, dental and vision insurance plans
• Flexible spending account, life insurance and short‑ & long‑term disability insurances
• 401(k) with employer match

Salary will be based on relevant education and experience.

If you’re passionate about formulation, innovation, and product development we want to hear from you! Apply now to be a key player in shaping the future of sports nutrition.