R&D Chemist Assistant

The R&D Chemist Assistant supports the Research & Development Manager in the development, testing, and implementation of new products. This role is responsible for preparing laboratory batches, conducting physical and chemical testing, maintaining accurate documentation, calibrating laboratory equipment, and assisting with the successful transfer of new products into production.

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintaining a safe work environment.
• Prepare R&D laboratory batches as directed by the R&D Manager.
• Perform physical and chemical analysis on R&D formulations and document results accurately.
• Assist with product development projects, including testing, evaluation, and troubleshooting activities.
• Support the initial production runs of newly developed products and collaborate with Production and Quality Control teams to ensure successful scale-up and implementation.
• Maintain daily records of all R&D activities in designated laboratory notebooks and databases.
• Track and maintain records for new raw material samples, Certificates of Analysis (COAs), and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Calibrate, maintain, and document calibration records for laboratory equipment, including:
  Instron
  • QUV Weatherometer
  • Metrohm Titrators
  • Viscometer
  • Adhesion Tester
  • Gloss Meter
  • Resiliometer
  • FTIR
  • Taber Abrasion Unit

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Chemistry or Sciences
• Basic understanding of laboratory practices, chemical analysis, and testing procedures.
• Ability to accurately maintain technical records and documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work safely with chemicals and laboratory equipment while following all safety protocols.

• Experience working in a manufacturing, coatings, adhesives, polymers, or chemical production environment.
• Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as FTIR, viscometers, titrators, and material testing equipment.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Santa Fe Springs, CA.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Santa Fe Springs,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through…