The Home & Garden business unit of Spectrum Brands is based in St. Louis, Missouri with distribution, manufacturing and sales offices throughout the US and globe. We are a leading supplier of consumer products nationally for the home, lawn and garden, insect and weed control markets. We deliver groundbreaking products of exceptional value and top-notch quality to consumers with our well-recognized brands including Spectracide, Hot Shot, Cutter, Repel, Black Flag, Garden Safe, EcoLogic and Liquid Fence.

The Formulations Manager provides overall technical leadership to formulators working on Outdoor Controls such as outdoor herbicides, outdoor insecticides, and insect repellents. Responsibilities will include implementation of new product concepts, product improvements, and cost savings opportunities as well as providing technical support to Marketing, Sourcing and Manufacturing. The role includes directly supervising personnel in the R&D laboratory. The role is that of a working manager who functions like a player coach, who not only supervises the lab, but also does hands-on formulation development. The person is expected to have knowledge and ability to apply GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) and non-GLP test methods in formulation chemistry. In addition, this role works closely with the Entomology, Plant Science, and Analytical groups to ensure additional testing is completed to support the development of their new products.

• Manage and develop the formulation staff in R&D
• Responsible for the selection and training of employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising employee performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems and disputes.
• Develop strategic plans to match business growth
• Be accountable for key performance indicators including safety, quality, production, cost, and development
• Must understand and demonstrate safe work practices at all times to ensure a safe work environment
• Partner with Marketing and R&D management to define product concepts and advise on technical issues
• Manage the technical aspects of new products and product improvements from concept to production start-up, including:
  • Formulations
  • Packaging
  • Regulatory support
  • Manufacturing support
  • Marketing support
• Effectively communicate and document progress of projects and timelines to diverse team members and stakeholders
• Represent R&D on cross-functional project teams
• Identify and implement cost savings opportunities
• Build and maintain a knowledge repository in the appropriate formulation science(s)
• Process and report data for claims substantiation
• Create and maintain a positive environment for all employees free of intimidation and harassment.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related science with 10+ years of experience or Master's degree in Chemistry or a related science with 7-10 years of experience.
• Previous experience formulating pesticides, household chemicals, and/or health & beauty aids.
• Experience in project management and people management.

• Knowledge of laboratory operations, equipment, and safety requirements
• Strong understanding of Good Laboratory Practices requirements
• Expertise and demonstrated competency in formulation chemistry including solutions, liquid concentrates, and granules
• Strong understanding of inert ingredient uses and interactions
• Proven track record in the development of commercially viable formulas
• Understanding of principles of formulation development and testing
• Ability to organize and manage multiple projects independently within designated time constraints.
• Ability to supervise other employees
• Positive interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team setting
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels within the organization
• Ability to effectively manage project timelines and project resources
• Results oriented, self-starter, independent worker, creative, and innovative
• Proficient in the operation of common R&D laboratory equipment
• PC skills (spreadsheets, word processing, presentations)

75% normal office environment and 25% laboratory environment.

This is a hybrid role, working from home Monday and Fridays.

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this job/classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Spectrum Brands is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

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