R&D Lab Lead – Hands-On, Onsite Leadership

WD-40 Company; Pine Brook (NJ); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

WD-40 Company is seeking a dynamic leader to run the Global Research & Development Laboratory in Pine Brook, NJ. This onsite role combines hands-on testing with people leadership, safety oversight, and project management across global teams.

You will mentor a small team of scientists, evaluate testing requests, and develop new test methodologies while ensuring compliant lab operations. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and not require visa sponsorship.

Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on experience in analytical, research, or engineering lab with supervision experience.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, analyze, and document lab testing using the scientific method.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to lead a small team across global functions.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory Operations and Safety: oversee operation of Global R&D laboratory ensuring safety compliance and equipment care.
• Leadership: train and lead R&D Lab Scientists, prioritize workload, perform hands-on testing.
• Project Evaluation & Execution: evaluate testing requests, plan and execute research within budget.
• Testing and Data Analysis: perform testing, analyze data, document methods and outcomes.
• Test Methodology and Innovation: design new test methods and improve R&D processes.
• External Partner Relationships: manage relationships with labs and vendors, monitor progress.

Skills

Leadership

Lab management

Communication

Collaboration

Hands-on testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or related technical field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

WD-40 Company is seeking a dynamic leader to run the Global Research & Development Laboratory in Pine Brook, NJ. This onsite role combines hands-on testing with people leadership, safety oversight, and project management across global teams.

You will mentor a small team of scientists, evaluate testing requests, and develop new test methodologies while ensuring compliant lab operations. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and not require visa sponsorship.