Research and Development Scientist 1

Keystone Industries; Gibbstown (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Keystone Industries seeks an entry‑level R&D Scientist 1 in Gibbstown, NJ to conduct research, develop new formulations, and improve products. You’ll work hands‑on in the lab, perform stability testing, match color, and document results under GLP guidelines.

Ideal candidates have 0–2 years in a lab, a Bachelor’s in a related field, strong English communication, Excel skills, and the ability to wear PPE in a fast‑paced manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years’ experience in a laboratory environment.
• Strong communication skills in English (written and verbal).
• Good mathematical skills with unit conversions and percentages.
• Good organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Good decision‑making skills.
• Computer proficient; MS Office, especially Excel.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and in PPE.
• Candidates must pass in-person color test.

Responsibilities

• Maintain quality system records including batch cards and COAs.
• Prepare and maintain laboratory SOPs and test methods.
• Complete assignments, projects, and summaries as required.
• Create product specifications for samples in development.
• Develop formulas and document standards and notebooks.
• Match colors in cosmetic media and operate lab equipment.
• Perform stability testing and record results per GLP.

Skills

Lab experience

English proficiency

Mathematical skills

Organizational skills

Decision making

Computer proficiency

Excel proficiency

Teamwork

PPE compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Engineering or similar

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Company Overview

We are passionate about our employees. We strive to create an environment that is stimulating and motivating and a culture that fosters mutual respect, teamwork, and career development. Come join the Keystone team so we can build your career together!

Job Details

Description

Company Overview

We are passionate about our employees. We strive to create an environment that is stimulating and motivating and a culture that fosters mutual respect, teamwork, and career development. Come join the Keystone team so we can build your career together!

In addition to competitive starting salaries, we offer a wide variety of competitive benefits, perks and programs that provide our employees the resources to pursue their goals, both at work and in their personal lives.

Please visit our website at www.keystoneind.com to learn more about Keystone Industries and career opportunities.

Position Details

• Title: R&D Scientist 1
• Schedule: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm M-F (potential to flex to 4/10's)
• Location: Gibbstown, NJ (08027)
• Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 1 year lab or directly related experience, ideally in a manufacturing environment. Candidates must pass in-person color test to be considered.
• Salary/Pay Range (based on experience and qualifications): 60,000-80,000 commensurate on experience/level (level 2-3 may vary)

Position Overview

The R&D Scientist is responsible for conducting research, developing new products, improving existing formulations, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This role involves designing and/or executing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams, including Quality, Regulatory, Sales, and Manufacturing. At the entry level, the role focuses on hands‑on laboratory work, data collection, and supporting larger research initiatives. As experience grows, responsibilities expand to include project leadership, problem‑solving, and innovation strategy. Senior‑level scientists contribute to long‑term research goals, mentor junior team members, and play a key role in driving technical advancements and business objectives. This role at all levels requires a detail‑oriented, collaborative, and innovative contributor.

R&D Scientist 1

Essential Job Functions

• Assist in maintaining the quality system, including but not limited to managing batch cards, QCAs, COAs, and retains.
• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of laboratory SOPs and test methods.
• Complete assignments, projects and prepare reports/project summaries, as required.
• Create product specifications for samples that are in development.
• Create, maintain, and organize standards, physical laboratory notebook, and electronic documentation.
• Develop and verify formulas.
• Identify important scale up parameters and plant equipment to safely manufacture new formulations.
• Match colors in various cosmetic mediums including fingernail coatings.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Participate in general upkeep of the laboratory.
• Perform and maintain records for product and packaging stability.
• Perform basic formula generation/data review tasks in New Product Launch software.
• Perform cost analysis of formulations.
• Perform stability testing for color fading and product stability per GLP guidelines.
• Produce customer specialty samples as necessary.
• Test and evaluate raw materials, intermediates and finished products.
• Under the guidance of senior laboratory staff, develop products to meet customer needs.
• Utilize appropriate spectrophotometric techniques and software as needed to match and document color.
• Work safely with hazardous chemicals and waste.
• Perform additional duties/tasks as needed or requested by management.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years’ experience in a laboratory environment.
• Strong communication skills in English (both written and verbal) to understand and follow procedures, work instructions, and safety guidelines.
• Good mathematical skills with the ability to perform unit conversions, calculate ratios, and determine percentages accurately.
• Good organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Good decision-making skills.
• Computer proficient.
• Proficiency with MS Office - especially Excel.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, independent or team-oriented environment.
• Must be capable of wearing all required protective gear and adhering to all PPE procedures.

Desired Skills

• Previous experience working in pharmaceutical or chemical industry.

Education/Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related technical field (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Engineering or similar).

Safety

• Comply with all safety regulations; maintains a safe work environment at all times.
• Adhere to always wearing the proper PPE/Safety equipment.
• Understand and comply with all written safety, health, and environmental procedures.
• Attend all required scheduled Health, Safety and Environmental training sessions.
• Participate in required Health, Safety and Environmental initiatives and programs.
• Perform required administrative functions related to Health, Safety and Environmental functions such as completing forms, checklists, and log sheets.

Physical Demands And Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Physical Demands: Employee is required to walk; stand; sit; use hands and fingers to manipulate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms to operate a computer, office equipment, and various laboratory equipment while performing laboratory work; and occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs. Minimal need to balance, stoop, bend, kneel or climb.
• Work Environment: This position is located in a laboratory setting, within a manufacturing facility. Noise intensity level: quiet to low. Employees will frequently need to enter lab and manufacturing areas, which may include exposure to moderate noise, moving equipment, and hazardous contaminants. Additionally, employees may be exposed to light fumes or airborne particles. When entering these areas, employees must adhere to all applicable safety protocols, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements. Occasional travel may be required for audits, inspections, external site visits, or industry conferences.