R&D Associate

Bell International Laboratories; Eagan, Northern (MN, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental

Vision

Long Term Disability

Life Insurance

Critical Care Insurance

Accident Insurance

PTO

Sick Leave

401(k)

Job summary

Bell International Laboratories in Eagan, MN is seeking a Research Associate with basic cosmetic formulation knowledge, especially skincare, sun care and OTC products. You will modify formulas to meet client requirements and batch for production, reporting to the R&D Director or Vice President.

You will perform safe lab work, compute batch sizes, document results, and learn FDA regulations and cGMPs while supporting multiple development projects in a team environment.

Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related sciences.
• 1–3 years as a technician or other suitable position in the industry.
• Strong laboratory techniques and safe chemical handling.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel).

Responsibilities

• Perform every job safely to protect yourself, colleagues, contractors, visitors and the facility.
• Accurately and efficiently prepare samples based on modifications of existing formulations and management instructions.
• Ensure bulk batches, finished products, and raw materials meet sample specifications and quality standards.
• Develop understanding of formulation transition challenges to the production floor.
• Learn FDA regulations and cGMPs related to product development.
• Document and batch records accurately.
• Calculate proper batch sizes and perform routine product testing (pH, viscosity, etc.).
• Communicate issues with research, batching or stability to relevant personnel.

Skills

Lab equipment operation

Formulation knowledge

Communication skills

Initiative & problem solving

Time management

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office proficiency

Independence in fast-paced environment

Policy & procedure adaptation

Education

BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

A Research Associate understands basic cosmetic formulation, especially skincare, sun care, and other OTC products, and is able to modify formulas to meet client requirements. The Research Associate will be expected to follow proper procedures; perform accurate computations and batch appropriately for production capabilities. The Research Associate requires a hands‑on, team‑based approach and will report directly to the R&D Director or Vice President.

Responsibilities

• Perform every job safely to protect yourself, your co‑workers, contractors, visitors and the facility
• Accurately and efficiently prepare samples based on modifications of existing formulations and instructions provided by R&D Chemists and management.
• Assure that bulk batches, finished products, and raw materials meet the Bell Labs established sample specifications and quality standards and that sample documents are saved properly.
• Develop understanding of the challenges related to formulation transition to the production floor.
• Focus on learning regulations related to product development, including OTC requirements.
• Develop knowledge on documentation requirements needed during product development as well as batching procedures needed for transition to production.
• Perform calculations to determine proper batch sizes.
• Perform routine tests on products such as measuring pH, specific gravity, viscosity, as well as organoleptic testing of color, odor, appearance and texture.
• Work upon multiple development projects as required.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records of all work in formats required.
• Maintain a clean laboratory environment and equipment.
• Communicate research, batching or stability issues and concerns immediately with all relevant personnel to achieve timely and effective results.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities

• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment set‑up and operation, common laboratory techniques and safe chemical handling .
• Basic skincare formulation knowledge of emulsions, gels, alcohol‑based products etc.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• High level of initiative, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and manage deadlines accordingly.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with team members, and vendors.
• Displays sense of urgency and initiative with creativity and flexibility.
• Exceptional attention to detail and high level of accuracy & organization.
• Ability to work as part of a team and excel independently in fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing policies and procedures.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)

RequiredEducation and Experience

• BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related sciences
• 1 – 3 years as a technician or other suitable position in the industry

Preferred Education and Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in formulation of personal care products
• BS in Cosmetic Science
• Thorough understanding of FDA regulations and cGMPs

Additional Information

EEO Statement

Bell International Laboratories provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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.

$55k/yr – $65k/yr
Full Time Onsite
Monday-Friday
Eagan, MN

Health
Dental
Vision
Long Term Disability
Life Insurance
Critical Care Insurance
Accident Insurance
PTO
Sick Leave
401(k)