Product Development Scientist

Balchem - New Hampton, NY

Full-time - Entry Level

New Hampton, NY

1,001-5,000 employees

Chemical Manufacturing

About the position

The Product Development Scientist at Balchem Corporation is a key member of the R&D Group, focusing on Food Encapsulation Technology within the Particle Engineering Group. This role involves developing new formulations and processes for microencapsulated ingredients aimed at the Human Health & Nutrition markets. The position requires collaboration across various departments, including manufacturing, supply chain, and quality, to ensure effective transition from lab to manufacturing. The candidate will engage in both strategic and tactical aspects of product development, requiring hands-on problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Work safely and enforce safety policies, demonstrating safe behaviors and using safety equipment.
• Guide the manufacturing of ingredients using proprietary encapsulation technology.
• Lead product development efforts in formulation, application, and process development.
• Coordinate application testing of ingredients and compile data for presentations.
• Act as a Technical Project Leader or team member for product development projects.
• Create experimental designs, run technical experiments, and analyze data.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to develop product solutions.
• Conduct hands-on pilot scale trials and support pilot plant operations.
• Write detailed manufacturing instructions and specifications for operations.
• Participate in scale-up trials and troubleshoot production problems.
• Maintain documentation for project work and assist in patent filings.
• Prepare presentations and reports for key stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and standards.
• Travel up to 10-20% of the time as needed.

Requirements

• BS degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field required.
• 2-4 years of industrial experience in process or product development preferred, but entry-level candidates will be considered.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly self-motivated and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to apply scientific principles to new situations and exhibit a collaborative mindset.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Minitab, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Six Sigma is a plus.
• Knowledge of food and dietary supplement cCMPs preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses.
• Health insurance and wellness programs.
• 401k retirement plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.