Product Development Chemist

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Product Development Chemist to lead the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical formulations. This role supports agronomic research and product innovation through hands-on work in the formulation laboratory. The ideal candidate will oversee formulation projects from concept through commercialization, ensuring product performance, regulatory compliance, and manufacturing feasibility.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Formulation & Product Development

• Design and develop new product formulations based on market needs and technical specifications.
• Refine and modify existing formulations to improve performance, stability, and cost-efficiency.
• Monitor formulation stability, compatibility, and handling characteristics using experimental design.

Testing & Analysis

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative experiments using analytical instrumentation.
• Prepare test solutions and interpret data to meet performance criteria.
• Develop nonstandard tests and troubleshoot formulation-related issues.

Project Management

• Lead cross-functional teams including R&D, Regulatory, and Manufacturing.
• Maintain project timelines, documentation, and communication throughout the development cycle.

Scale-Up & Manufacturing Support

• Collaborate with production team to scale formulations from lab to pilot and full-scale manufacturing.
• Maintain and calibrate lab equipment; report malfunctions as needed.

Regulatory & Documentation

• Ensure compliance with EPA, FDA, REACH, and other relevant regulations.
• Prepare and maintain SDSs, technical reports, and formulation records.
• Safely manage hazardous materials and follow proper disposal procedures.

Innovation & Research

• Stay current with industry trends, raw materials, and technologies.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred).
• 2+ years of experience in formulation development or product development.
• Strong understanding of chemical interactions, stability, and compatibility.
• Experience with analytical instrumentation.
• Excellent documentation, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of lab safety practices and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.

Preferred

• Strong agriculture background/knowledge.
• Familiarity with sustainable chemistry practices.
• Experience with formulation software or digital lab notebooks.
• Understanding of marketing concepts.
• Ability to present in front of groups.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other office tools.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Manual dexterity for lab work and equipment handling.
• Occasional travel and overnight stays may be required.

DISCLAIMER

The job description is not intended to cover or describe all tasks, duties and responsibilities the employee may be required to be asked to perform. Sunrise Cooperative retains the right to change or add new tasks, duties and responsibilities at any time, with or without notice to the employee.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

Evidence of work authorization upon employment is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Completion of USCIS form I-9 will be required in order to verify employment eligibility within 3 business days of the first day of employment.

AAP/EEO STATEMENT

Sunrise Cooperative provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Sunrise Cooperative complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Sunrise Cooperative expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Sunrise Cooperative's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including termination.

Potential hire will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check