Principal Scientist

(1023) Chattem, Inc; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 98,250 - 131,916; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee benefit programs

Job summary

Opella is seeking a Global Consumer Insights Lead – Rx-to-OTC Switch in Chattanooga, TN to innovate how self-care works for millions. The role involves leading formulation development for OTC gummies and collaborating across various departments to bring products to market.

Ideal candidates will possess strong experience in gummy formulation science. The position offers a competitive salary range of $98,250.00–$131,916.66 based on experience and a chance to inspire impactful health solutions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience for Ph.D. holders, 8+ for M.S. holders, and 10+ for B.S. holders.
• Strong hands-on experience developing gummy or confectionery-based dosage forms.
• Demonstrated success in commercializing products from concept to launch.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development of OTC ingestible products, focusing on gummy dosage forms.
• Drive product development from concept through commercialization.
• Ensure formulations meet regulatory requirements and quality standards.

Skills

Gummy formulation science

Cross-functional collaboration

Commercialization of OTC products

Regulatory compliance

Education

Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. in relevant fields

Tools

Manufacturing processes (cooking, depositing, etc.)

Job description

Overview

You’ve built experience, now use it where bold ideas meet real impact. At Opella, we’re challenging how self‑care works for millions of people and need leaders ready to shape what’s next. As the Global Consumer Insights Lead – Rx‑to‑OTC Switch, you will bring your skill, curiosity and drive to make health simpler, smarter, and more human.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development of oral OTC ingestible products, with a strong focus on gummy dosage forms across sleep, pain, allergy, and wellness categories.
• Apply deep expertise in gummy formulation science including active‑ingredient delivery, taste masking, texture optimization, and stability.
• Drive product development from concept through commercialization, including scale‑up and manufacturing transfer.
• Partner cross‑functionally with R&D, Regulatory, Quality, Marketing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver innovative consumer‑focused products.
• Translate consumer insights and market trends into differentiated, high‑performing OTC products.
• Ensure formulations meet regulatory requirements, quality standards, and commercialization timelines.
• Provide technical leadership and innovation in developing consumer‑loved products with strong efficacy, flavor, and user experience.

Key Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or related field; 5+ years experience, M.S. with 8+ years, or B.S. with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Strong hands‑on experience developing gummy or confectionery‑based dosage forms (required).
• Proven experience with OTC oral products, dietary supplements, or functional confections.
• Demonstrated success in commercializing products from concept to launch.
• Deep expertise in gummy and oral delivery formulation science, including hydrocolloid systems, API compatibility, moisture control, shelf‑life optimization, taste masking, and sugar‑free technologies.
• Strong understanding of commercial manufacturing processes (cooking, depositing, molding, drying, coating, and finishing) with experience partnering with CDMOs and a vendor network.

Opportunity

If you’re ready to challenge, inspire and deliver impact that matters, we’re ready for you.

Benefits

Employees may be eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs. The salary range is $98,250.00–$131,916.66 USD annually, commensurate with demonstrated experience.

Equal Opportunity & EEO Statement

Opella Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employers committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital, domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, disability, veteran or militar…

Eligibility

North America Applicants Only.

Company

Opella is the self‑care challenger with the purest and third‑largest portfolio in the OTC & Vitamins, Minerals & Supplements market globally. In partnership with a B Corp‑certified culture, we’re responsible for health bettering for half a billion consumers worldwide.