Job Description

This position leads advanced formulation development and technical support activities by guiding junior staff, driving R&D trials and documentation, and ensuring efficient project execution aligned with organizational goals.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the R&D Manager in planning and prioritizing project timelines, ensuring alignment with company goals and cross-functional coordination.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior R&D staff, fostering a collaborative and development-focused lab environment.
• Perform R&D trials on solid, ready to mix powders (RTM) and liquid dosage formats including tablets, 2-piece capsules, powders, liquids, and suspensions. 
• Develop formulations based on target market requirements and specifications, accurately calculating inputs to meet label claims, meeting regulatory requirements etc.
• Accurately collect trial data for product development reports and maintain organized records.
• Prepare samples and package/label and coordinate sample shipment with sales as per customer requirements.
• Assess raw materials for in-bound projects and liaise with the purchasing team to order and document samples.
• Collect raw materials from the warehouse and maintain a raw material library in the laboratory.
• Collect and maintain a library of supplier CoA and other documentation for raw materials.
• Maintain laboratory space and equipment daily to ensure smooth operation. 
• Assist the production department as needed to optimize commercial formulations.
• Assist with applications for government grants.
• Perform other duties as required or assigned.

Health and Safety Responsibilities

• Adhere to all workplace health and safety policies, procedures, and regulations to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and others.

• Identify and promptly report any safety hazards, near misses, or incidents to the appropriate supervisor or safety representative.

Other Responsibilities as assigned

• Adhere strictly to all GMP procedures to ensure safe and compliant production.
• Work according to the Quality Management System (QMS), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company policies and practices to ensure quality and compliance.
• Keep work areas clean and practice proper personal hygiene to prevent contamination.
• Immediately report any product issues, equipment malfunctions, or deviations from procedures.
• Need to react to change productively and to undertake other tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or a related scientific field. 
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in Research & Development within the pharmaceutical, natural health product, nutraceutical, food, or related manufacturing industry. 
• Experience developing formulations for solid and liquid dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, and suspensions.
• Knowledge of the Canadian Food Safety Systems, SOP's, GMP's, HACCP, MSDS. 
• Strong understanding of formulation development principles.
• Previous experience mentoring or training junior staff is considered an asset.
• Able to work independently and with others. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel). 
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. 
• Ability to successfully multi-task, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines. 
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs.