Chemist I

Location: Clark, NJ (5x a week)

Schedule: Onsite

Duration: 6 months (possibility of extension)

Contract: W2 only

Pay rate: Up to $75,000 annually based on experience

Job Summary:

We are seeking a meticulous and detail-oriented Laboratory Technician with experience in the personal care, paint, food, or cosmetics industry to join our team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in stability testing, batching processes, and physicochemical analysis. This role requires a proactive individual who thrives on optimizing processes, ensuring data accuracy, and exploring innovative techniques to enhance product quality.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct physicochemical characterization and evaluate the performance of hair and cosmetic products in compliance with established protocols and quality standards (e.g., microscopy, rheology).

Assist in designing experiments to analyze stability, appearance, viscosity, and in-vitro performance of formulations.

Explore and implement new methods of formula characterization to improve product evaluation.

Maintain complete traceability of characterizations, from sample recovery to data analysis and reporting.

Contribute to the creation and optimization of sample transfer logistics between the formulation and characterization laboratories.

Maintain stability records and ensure compliance with regulatory and quality requirements.

Operate laboratory equipment such as pH meters, viscometers/rheometers, and foam analyzers.

Collaborate with team members to provide feedback on processes and contribute to their continuous improvement.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in physical sciences or a related field, with a minimum of 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting, or equivalent certification/diploma in Quality Control or Physical Measurements.

Strong technical research experience in a lab environment.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Exceptional attention to detail, organizational, and analytical skills.

Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Ability to work autonomously and as part of a collaborative team.

Rigor and critical thinking in conducting analyses and reporting results.

Background in math and science, with a feedback mindset to improve processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with batching equipment such as Olsa, Disconti, or Silverson.

Familiarity with advanced lab tools like foam analyzers, rheometers, or microscopy.

Positive attitude and willingness to learn new techniques and tools.