Hands-On R&D Lab Lead - Consumer Products
Listed on 2026-11-07
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Research/Development
Research Scientist, Lab Tech / Assistant, Regulatory Compliance Specialist
$65K-$80k/Annual
The R&D Lab Manager is responsible for the technical leadership, day-to-day management, and effective operation of the R&D laboratory. This is a hands-on leadership position that combines technical problem-solving with management of laboratory workload, personnel, documentation, equipment, and processes.
The R&D Lab Manager works closely with the R&D Manager, R&D Lead, Project Managers, Regulatory, and Operations to ensure development projects, samples, testing, and technical activities are completed efficiently, accurately, and according to established priorities.
A significant portion of this position is expected to remain hands-on in the laboratory, actively participating in project work, troubleshooting, testing, and other bench activities.
The anticipated compensation for this position ranges from $65,000-$80,000 USD annually. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, experience, and skills. In this role, a successful candidate may be eligible for an annual bonus up to 20% based on company performance and personal performance.
Primary Responsibilities
- Technical Resource
- Laboratory Leadership & Workload Management
- Laboratory Staff Leadership & Development
- Lab Operations
- Sample Development & Sample-Out Process
- Finished Product Documentation & Records
- Testing & Shelf-Life Activities
- Ingredient & Supplier Technical Evaluation
- Scale-Up & Production Support
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Culinology, or a related scientific/technical discipline preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and significant R&D lab experience may be considered.
Experience
- Several years working in an R&D food laboratory environment.
- Experience assisting as projects move from development through commercialization.
- Experience troubleshooting formulations and production/process issues.
- Previous leadership, supervisory, mentoring, or technical-lead experience strongly preferred.
- Experience with technical documentation and laboratory recordkeeping.
Key Competencies
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
- Sound technical judgment and problem-solving ability
- Ability to balance leadership responsibilities with bench work
- Strong organization and documentation skills
- Clear and direct communication
- Attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment
- Location Requirements:
- Please note that relocation assistance is not available for this position. Candidates must currently reside within a reasonable commuting distance of our facility or be willing to self-relocate at their own expense prior to employment.
- Work Authorization Requirements:
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive and diverse work place.
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