Formulation Chemist

Labtopia, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Labtopia, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Lead Chemist to oversee laboratory operations and product development in a fast-growing specialty chemical environment.

You will drive formulation development, QC, regulatory compliance, and raw material evaluation while collaborating with R&D and manufacturing teams to ensure products meet performance and quality standards. Strong leadership and communication are essential.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Chemistry or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of formulation experience.
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize formulations for industrial, automotive, and heavy-duty chemical products and specialty materials.
• Conduct additive and component evaluations to enhance product performance, stability, durability, and operational reliability.
• Maintain daily operations of the QC Laboratory.
• Perform analytical testing (FTIR, spectroscopy, viscometry, flash, ICP).
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory instrumentation and document QC processes.

Skills

Formulation development

Quality control

Regulatory compliance

Analytical testing

Laboratory instrumentation

Education

BS or MS in Chemistry

Tools

FTIR

ICP

Viscometry

Job description

Our client is seeking a hands-on Lead Chemist to oversee laboratory operations and product development within a fast-growing specialty chemical manufacturing environment.

This role requires a technical leader who thrives in a dynamic, multifaceted position, with direct responsibility for formulation development, quality control (QC), regulatory compliance, and raw material evaluation. Serving as a key link between R&D and manufacturing, you will work closely with production teams to ensure products consistently meet performance, quality, and operational specifications while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and optimize formulations for industrial, automotive, and heavy-duty chemical products and specialty materials.
• Conduct additive and component evaluations to enhance product performance, stability, durability, and operational reliability.
• Maintain daily operations of the QC Laboratory
• Perform analytical testing (FTIR, spectroscopy, viscometry, flash, ICP)
• Clean, maintain and calibrate laboratory instrumentation
• Maintain QMS records (ISO 9001)
• Investigate and resolve out-of-specification production batches, implementing corrective actions to maintain quality standards and production efficiency.
• Follow all laboratory safety, environmental, and compliance policies
• Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

• BS or MS degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field preferred
• 5+ years of formulation experience
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Frequent use of hands for handling laboratory tools and equipment
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Ability to work in laboratory environments with petroleum or chemical odors within OSHA permissible exposure limits
• Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment as required
• Laboratory setting with potential exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and chemicals
• Compliance with all laboratory safety and environmental policies is required

Type of Assignment:

Shift Schedule:

M-F Schedule

Pay Rate:

$35+/hr depending on level of experience