R&D Manager (Chemistry)

At this time, WaveCrest cannot transfer nor sponsor a work Visa for this position.

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Take the Lead in R&D Without Leaving the Lab Behind!

Are you an experienced chemist who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and leading others? This is an exciting opportunity to combine hands-on chemistry with leadership, guiding a talented laboratory team while taking ownership of innovative product and process development projects from concept through implementation.

Pay: $110k-$120k

Schedule: Mon-Fri 8a-5p

Type of Job: Direct Hire

Location: Columbus, IN

Benefits Offered:

• Medical and Prescription Health Insurance
• Life Insurance/ Disability Insurance
• 401k with Company Match
• Employee Development/Training Opportunities

R&D Manager (Chemistry)Daily Tasks: What you will do:

• Oversee laboratory research initiatives focused on developing, improving, and introducing chemical products and manufacturing processes.
• Direct technical projects through feasibility assessment, experimental development, performance testing, validation, and operational adoption.
• Provide day-to-day guidance, technical coaching, and professional development support to laboratory personnel.
• Perform and oversee scientific experiments, assess analytical findings, and recommend improvements based on documented results.
• Investigate formulation challenges, product inconsistencies, and process-related issues to identify sustainable technical solutions.
• Partner with manufacturing and quality teams to support product scale-up, process improvements, and successful technology transfers.
• Establish research priorities, coordinate laboratory resources, and monitor progress against project objectives.
• Ensure experimental procedures, technical records, and laboratory practices meet applicable quality and safety expectations.
• Communicate research outcomes, technical recommendations, project risks, and development milestones to internal stakeholders.
• Promote a collaborative, accountable laboratory environment that encourages innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.

R&D Manager (Chemistry)Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Science, or a closely related technical discipline.
• Minimum of five years of practical chemistry experience within an industrial laboratory, manufacturing facility, or applied research environment.
• At least one to two years of experience directing technical employees, coordinating scientific teams, or providing formal project leadership.
• Proven ability to lead chemical research or product development initiatives from initial design through successful testing and implementation.
• Strong understanding of laboratory experimentation, chemical analysis, data interpretation, and technical problem-solving.

We strongly encourage candidates who have some of the skills to apply. We look forward to a conversation to learn more about you!