Associate Manager, Research and Development - Process Engineer

Associate Manager, Research and Development - Process Engineer

Racine, Wisconsin

Step into the heart of innovation at the SC Johnson Pilot Plant in Racine, WI, where you’ll lead the development and scale‑up of new Personal Care products across our Lifestyle Brands network. Partnering with the Production Services Manager, you’ll ensure every product delivers a consistent, high‑quality experience—no matter where it’s made.

This is a hands‑on role for a problem‑solver who thrives on the manufacturing floor. If you bring sharp attention to detail, quick decision‑making, and a passion for formulation and process development, you’ll play a key role in turning ideas into scalable, consumer‑ready products.

• Conduct all necessary process development experiments (i.e. Design of Experiments) for scale‑up readiness for new product launches.
• Execute lab and pilot plant studies outlined in the process development plan to ensure the scalability and robustness of formulas.
• Develop the process instructions and quality specs that will be used in production.
• Develop qualification plans, line trials, and equipment capability studies to ensure successful commercialization at internal and external manufacturing locations.
• Conduct in‑depth technical feasibility assessments of contract manufacturers/suppliers, including manufacturing capabilities, cost drivers, and quality systems.
• Assist quality and supply planning teams to troubleshoot quality and/or production issues at manufacturing locations.
• Develop commercialization risk assessments ahead of scale‑up to help ensure the right level of resource and time allocation (depending on product complexity and supply chain stability).
• Create quality specifications, process instructions, and formula specifications as well as ongoing management of data accuracy in Project Lifecycle Management software (SAP).
• Participate in project teams, influencing short‑ and long‑term project plans.
• Identify new product, cost, supply assurance and quality improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with Engineering and other groups to build capabilities and continuously strive to improve the operation, efficiency and capability of the sites.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years’ experience with a focus on formulation scale‑up, commercialization, qualification, and hands‑on troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment.
• 2+ years’ experience in the personal care/cosmetics industry.

• Proven experience and knowledge of process development, scale‑up and manufacturing best practices.
• Knowledge of OTC/personal care process/methodology and industrial manufacturing guidelines and requirements.
• Superior technical knowledge, attention to detail and ability to multi‑task.
• Passion for innovation and environmental sustainability.
• Highly effective communication skills—able to articulate ideas, voice constructive opinions.
• Ability to collaborate well as a member of a multi‑functional team.
• Ability to stay focused on the big picture.

• This role is not offering relocation assistance.
• Travel required (up to 33% of time).
• Office work environment, Racine, WI.
• Remote work available once a week after 90‑day onboarding period.
• Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice as assigned by the Manager. The job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the position remains at‑will.

SC Johnson’s total compensation packages are at or above industry levels, including bonuses, long‑term incentives, matching 401(k) contributions and profit sharing. Benefits include subsidized health care plans, maternity/paternity/adoption leave, flexible work arrangements, vacation purchase options, recreation and fitness centers, childcare, counseling services and more.

We’re a global business, with people from every culture, ethnicity, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and ability. We work to celebrate this diversity and create an inclusive workplace where all people can thrive.

The policy of the Company is to ensure equal opportunity for all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, gender identity, gender expression, disability, citizenship, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in any active or reserve component of the U.S. or state military forces, genetic history or information or any other category protected by law.