Research & Development Project Manager

About Us

We are a family of scientists, farmers, and pioneers working toward the development of a modern, global industry. Our core value of Innovative Creativity is why Abstrax Tech, Inc. is a leading innovator of the sensorial experiences that shape the cannabis industry. We specialize in ingredient, processing, and formulation science, focusing on terpene research and its applications in flavor profiles, fragrance, and the discovery of new valuable molecules. Abstrax collaborates with established manufacturers to help advance the industry, working closely with some of the largest and fastest-growing brands to develop custom formulations for products like vape pens, concentrates, topicals, tinctures, alcohol, and more.

POSITION SUMMARY

Abstrax Research and Development Team is seeking a Project Manager to lead and execute projects across product development, formulation, and commercialization. This role is responsible for managing small to mid-sized projects or key workstreams, ensuring timely delivery of innovative products in flavor science, terpene research, and cannabis formulations. The ideal candidate has experience managing cross-functional initiatives and is comfortable operating in a fast-paced, science-driven, and regulated environment. You will play a critical role in bringing new products from concept to market while balancing timelines, quality, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and manage small-to-mid-sized projects or workstreams within larger R&D and commercialization programs
• Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and milestones across product development initiatives
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including R&D, lab operations, marketing, sales, regulatory, and supply chain
• Support execution of new product development (NPD) from concept through launch
• Monitor project progress, risks, and dependencies, proactively implementing mitigation strategies
• Facilitate project meetings, track action items, and ensure accountability across teams Communicate project status, risks, and outcomes to stakeholders, leadership and external partners
• Support regulatory and compliance alignment
• Collaborate with vendors and external partners to ensure deliverables are met
• Identify opportunities to improve project management processes and workflows
• Utilize tools such as Monday.com, Asana, Jira, or Smartsheet to manage project execution

Key Skills

• Project ownership and accountability
• Cross-functional leadership  Risk management and problem-solving
• Stakeholder communication
• Time and priority management
• Adaptability in a high-growth innovation environment

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Project Management, or related field
• 5 years of experience in project management, project coordination, or product development
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects or workstreams independently
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid)
• 2 years of Asana experience highly preferred
• Excellent organizational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in flavor, fragrance, cannabis, biotech, or CPG industries
• Exposure to lab environments, formulations, or R&D workflows

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• US work authorization (Required)
• Successfully complete a background check

What We Can Do For You:

Extras:

• 401(k) & Match
• Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid Parental leave
• 2 weeks accrued paid time off
• 16 hours of personal time off
• 8 Holidays
• Annual performance reviews
• Professional development assistance

What We Can Do For You:

• Provide insight into a specialized, high growth industry
• Provide the opportunity to acquire highly sought out skills
• Provide the opportunity to further enhance current professional strengths
• Provide a clear path for career advancement
• Provide a safe environment to produce quality work

Work Environment & Safety Requirements

Work may be performed in a laboratory, manufacturing, warehouse, or office environment, depending on the role. Employees may be exposed to moderate noise, odors, or chemical substances typical of a research or manufacturing setting. Compliance with all safety protocols and company policies is required.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear must be worn as appropriate for assigned tasks. Abstrax Tech provides all required PPE and ensures a safe and compliant work environmentAbstrax Tech, Inc. is an equal oppportunity employer.

At Abstrax Tech, Inc., we credit our success to the strength and dedication of our teams. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute their best work. If you’re passionate about making an impact in a fast-growing industry and want to be part of a team that leads with care and quality, we’d love to hear from you!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Will you now or in the future require visa sponsorship?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Flavor/Fragrance/Cannabis: 1 year (Preferred)
• Management: 2 years (Preferred)
• Project management: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Irvine, CA 92614 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000 - $100,000