Assistant Manager – R&D

About Our Client:

Location: Pondicherry

Experience: M.Sc. in Chemistry or M.Tech in Oils/Oleochemicals mandatory

Qualification: 4–8 years in the FMCG industry formulation

Work Mode: Mon-Sat (WFO)

About the role:

Responsibilities:

1. Product Development & Formulation

• Independently develop and optimize formulations for detergent powders, liquid detergents, dishwash liquids, and other homecare products.
• Execute lab-scale, pilot-scale, and plant-scale batches, ensuring smooth transition from concept to commercialization.
• Identify and evaluate new raw materials and technologies for innovation and cost optimization.

2. Cross-Functional Project Management

• Collaborate with Marketing, Manufacturing, Packaging, QA, and Legal teams for New Product Development (NPD) and Existing Product Development (EPD).
• Manage project timelines, documentation, and approvals to ensure timely market launch.

3. Technical & Manufacturing Support

• Provide on-ground technical support during plant trials, process validation, and product stabilization.
• Visit own and third-party manufacturing units for product implementation and troubleshooting.

4. Vendor Evaluation & Raw Material Qualification

• Conduct vendor audits as part of the vendor approval process.
• Evaluate new and alternate raw materials through lab and pilot studies for product compatibility and performance.

5. Product Stability & Quality Testing

• Design and execute stability studies for new and existing products under different environmental conditions.
• Record, analyze, and interpret stability data to ensure product performance and shelf-life consistency.

6. Documentation & Lab Compliance

• Prepare and maintain product specifications, test methods, and formulation documentation.
• Ensure adherence to lab safety norms, conduct safety audits, and manage chemical inventory in compliance with R&D standards.

Desired Skills & Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of surfactants, builders, enzymes, fragrances, and colorants used in homecare formulations.
• Hands-on experience in formulation scale-up from lab to commercial production.
• Good analytical skills and familiarity with testing equipment and stability protocols.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Proactive approach to innovation and continuous product improvement.

Preferred Industry Background:

• Candidates from leading FMCG or contract manufacturing setups in Homecare / Fabric Care / Dishwash / Surface Cleaning categories.

About Hireginie: