About the Company
Kemin Industries is a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services. With over 60 years of experience, Kemin delivers innovative solutions for animal nutrition, human health, pet food, aquaculture, food technologies, crop technologies, and textiles, ensuring safe, healthy, and high-quality products worldwide. We are dedicated to scientific excellence and fostering a collaborative environment.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Formulation Chemist with proven leadership capabilities to join our innovative R&D team in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. As a Team Lead, you will be responsible for leading projects from conception through commercialization, developing novel formulations for our diverse product portfolio, and guiding a team of chemists. This role requires deep expertise in chemical formulation, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for driving product innovation and continuous improvement. A performance bonus will be awarded based on individual and team achievements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, development, and optimization of new and existing chemical formulations across various product lines.
- Manage and mentor a team of formulation chemists, fostering their professional growth and ensuring project objectives are met.
- Oversee the full lifecycle of product development, including raw material selection, stability testing, process scale-up, and technology transfer to manufacturing.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, and Regulatory affairs to ensure product compliance and seamless integration.
- Conduct root cause analysis for formulation issues and implement effective corrective actions.
- Develop and implement robust analytical methods for characterization and quality control of formulations.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and regulatory requirements to inform formulation strategies.
- Prepare comprehensive technical reports, present findings, and maintain detailed project documentation.
- Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and quality standards in the lab and during scale-up.
- Contribute to intellectual property development through patent applications and trade secrets.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field.
- Minimum of 72 months (6 years) of progressive experience in chemical formulation development, preferably in specialty chemicals, food science, or animal nutrition.
- Demonstrated experience in leading technical projects and/or managing a small team of scientists.
- Strong understanding of material compatibility, rheology, colloid chemistry, and surface science.
- Proficiency in various analytical techniques relevant to formulation characterization (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, particle size analysis).
- Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and experimental design (DOE) skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating with diverse teams.
- Ability to translate scientific principles into practical formulation solutions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with GMP/GLP environments.
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements for food additives, feed ingredients, or industrial chemicals.
- Familiarity with intellectual property processes and patent writing.
- Experience in a fast-paced, industrial R&D setting.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base salary with a performance bonus program.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Life insurance and disability benefits.
- Employee wellness programs.
- On-site fitness center and cafeteria.
- Collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Relocation assistance (if applicable).
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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