R&D Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a high-caliber R&D Manager to lead the formulation and lifecycle management of our diverse product portfolio. With over 60 active SKUs spanning high-performance powders and encapsulated supplements, you will be the bridge between innovative "bench-top" concepts and scalable, profitable manufacturing.

You will be responsible for new formulas testing, optimizing existing formulas for cost and flowability, and ensuring 100% compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 111 and SQF Edition 9 standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Portfolio Mastery: Manage and optimize a catalog of 60+ SKUs.
• Formulation & Innovation: Lead the "Bench-to-Bottle" process for new powders and capsules. Develop robust masking strategies for bitter botanicals and minerals.
• Scale-Up Leadership: Oversee the transition from R&D lab batches to full-scale production (Blending & Encapsulation). Troubleshoot floor issues such as clumping, capping, or flowability.
• Technical Documentation: Manage document changes and updates, such Master Manufacturing Records (MMR).
• Cross-Functional Synergy: Collaborate daily with the Plant Manager on production efficiency and the Supply Chain Specialist to qualify alternative raw material vendors, as well as existing remote R&D team.
• Fix any product related issues on the production floor (powder density, flowability, color, blending, etc.)
• Lead R&D team on site, manage all projects related to new or existing products

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: B.S. in Food Science, Chemistry, or Pharmaceutical Science (M.S. or Ph.D. strongly preferred).
• Experience: 3-5 years of direct R&D experience in the Dietary Supplement or Pharmaceutical industry. At least 2 years in a leadership or project management capacity.
• Technical Expertise: * Proven experience formulating complex powder blends and two-piece capsules.
• Deep understanding of excipient functionality (glidants, lubricants, fillers).
• Regulatory Fluency: Expert knowledge of FDA 21 CFR Part 111 and SQF requirements.

Benefits

• 4 weeks of paid time off (PTO) annually
• 7 paid holidays per year
• Comprehensive health insurance options
• 401(k) retirement plan eliglibility
• Company events
• Trainings and workshops for skill development

Location

Ability to work on-site in our Northern Virginia, Manassas facility to support the production floor.