R&D Laboratory Lead

In this dynamic,
hands-on leadership role
, you’ll lead the WD-40 Company Global Research & Development Laboratory while working alongside your team to conduct testing, run experiments, and solve technical challenges.

You’ll oversee lab operations and safety, lead and develop a small team of scientists, evaluate testing requests, conduct experiments, and troubleshoot lab equipment. You’ll also apply your scientific expertise to develop novel solutions and new test methodologies. If you enjoy
leading people while staying actively engaged in the science
, this could be the opportunity for you!

This role is based onsite at our Technical Center located in Pine Brook, NJ (
onsite 5 days/week
, Monday through Friday). Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. and should not require visa sponsorship now or in the future.

• Laboratory Operations and Safety
  :
  Leads the operation of the Global R&D laboratory, ensuring the facility operates in full compliance with appropriate safety regulations, equipment care, and efficient management of simultaneous experiments.

• Leadership
  :
  Trains R&D Lab Scientists on established procedures, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. Prioritizes team workload and works alongside the team in the laboratory, performing hands‑on testing and experimental activities.

• Project Evaluation & Execution
  :
  Evaluates testing requests and provides advice and guidance on testing perimeters. Plans, communicates, and executes research projects, coordinating internal and external parties to ensure timely completion within budget constraints.

• Testing and Data Analysis
  :
  Personally performs hands‑on laboratory testing and experiments as an integral part of the role, while managing product testing needs for Global R&D and ensuring compliance with testing protocols. Collates and analyzes data, documents test methods and outcomes, and develops testing and research protocols in accordance with established R&D guidelines.

• Test Methodology and Innovation
  :
  Identifies, designs, and implements new test methodologies using scientific principles. Contributes ideas for improving R&D methods and processes.

• External Partner Relationships
  :
  Build and maintains strong relationships with external labs and vendors. Communicates clearly and monitors progress to ensure performance aligns with company goals and timelines.

• Intellectual Property Management
  :
  Takes all necessary actions to ensure intellectual property is established and protectable. This includes controlling information access, keeping confidentiality, properly maintaining laboratory notebooks, etc.

• Equipment Troubleshooting and Maintenance
  :
  Regularly monitors equipment, carries out preventive maintenance, and troubleshoots lab equipment to maintain optimal performance and minimize downtime.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a related technical field. Master's degree is highly preferred.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in an analytical, research, or engineering laboratory, with experience leading or supervising others.
• Demonstrated experience applying the scientific method to independently plan, execute, analyze, and document laboratory testing and experiments.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to lead a small team and work effectively across cross‑functional and global teams.

Our “Why”

At WD-40 Company, we believe that purpose-driven, passionate people guided by our values create amazing outcomes. Our "why" is refreshingly simple - we exist to create positive lasting memories in everything we do.

Why You Should Apply

• A strong values-aligned organization where contributions are acknowledged and rewarded, and where 91% of our…