Certified Group is a leading North American provider of laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services. The Certified Group of companies includes Food Safety Net Services (FSNS), Certified Laboratories, EAS Consulting Group, and Labstat International Inc. The Certified Group provides analytical testing and regulatory guidance services in the food & beverage, dietary supplements & NHP, cosmetics, OTC, personal care, tobacco, cannabis, nicotine, and hemp industries.

We are currently looking for a RESEARCH SCIENTIST to join our growing team with Lab Plus (R&D) in Aurora, IL!

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for providing scientific expertise to routine laboratory service clientele, contract research customers, and company personnel. Has regular communication and interaction with each of these parties. Assists with evaluation of new or improved methods for analyzing food products and environmental samples for continual expansion and enhancement of laboratory service offerings. Carries out all aspects of contract research services including proposal generation, budgeting, coordinating, executing, reporting results, and billing of contract research projects. Provides on-site client assistance for troubleshooting purposes or contract research projects as needed.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintains a high degree of technical competence by reading scientific journals, attending professional workshops, and being aware of food industry regulations, issues, and trends.
• Assists Chief Science Officer and Principal Scientist(s) with evaluation of new or improved food and environmental testing methods to ensure that the most up-to-date technology is provided to clientele.
• Travels to scientific meetings and industry trade shows to stay abreast of current scientific, industry, and regulatory trends and to interact with clientele.
• Assists Chief Science Officer and Principal Scientist(s) with preparation of technical writing pieces for periodicals and newsletters.
• Prepares and delivers scientific and technical presentations.
• Demonstrates excellent customer service skills and the ability to understand and resolve scientific issues, answer questions, and gain customer confidence for both routine laboratory services and contract research services.
• Plans, proposes, and communicates with clients regarding contract research services.
• Coordinates and executes contract research services.
• Prepares and/or approves reports for said contract research services.
• Prepares associated budgets for said contract research services.
• Prepares billing for said contract research services.
• Interacts directly with operational staff and clients to discuss food safety concerns, regulatory guidance, testing needs, and results.
• Assists Chief Science Officer and Principal Scientist(s) to develop proficient and manageable programs for new contract research service business resulting in company growth and profitability, by assisting with development and improvement of marketing materials, client visits, and sales presentations.
• Willing to support all other departments in the lab as needed based on business demands.
• Travels for and assists with in-plant investigations and troubleshooting for FSNS clients.

SUPERVISION

• May take the lead role with two or more employees in the department
• Carry out responsibilities in accordance with organization's policies and applicable laws
• Responsibilities may include interviewing, training, directing work, and appraising performance

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field preferred
• Minimal educational requirement is M.S. in Food Science & Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field
• Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
• Familiarity with USDA MLG, FDA BAM, CMMEF, APHA, and AOAC methods and procedures
• Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and mouse and to handle other communications/computer components.
• Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens.
• Noise level varies from quiet to loud.
• Temperature varies from hot to cold.
• Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks.
• Overnight travel may be required at the discretion of management.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

BENEFITS:

• Progressive 401k Retirement Savings Plan
• Employer Paid Short- Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Group Medical
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Dental
• Paid Holidays and Time Off

Certified Group values diversity in its workforce. The company is firmly committed to a policy of Equal Opportunity and will administer its policies in a manner that treats each employee and applicant for employment on the basis of merit. Certified Group will take affirmative action to seek out qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, or veteran status.