Research Development Laboratory Supervisor

R&D Laboratory Supervisor

Location: Charlotte, NC

Status: Full-Time, Regular

Salary: $80,000-$90,000/year

Summary:

A growing industrial technology company is seeking a dedicated and experienced Chemist to serve as an R&D Laboratory Supervisor. This role involves overseeing the daily operations of a research and development lab focused on inkjet fluid development for industrial marking and coding applications. The ideal candidate will supervise a small team, lead new product development efforts, and collaborate with cross-functional teams both domestically and internationally. This is a hands-on position suited for a chemist who thrives in an applied science environment and is eager to contribute to innovative solutions in a fast-paced industry.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise and manage day-to-day laboratory activities, ensuring work is completed according to test procedures and company policies.
• Support formulation and development of inkjet inks, following established methods while integrating innovative approaches.
• Communicate with suppliers to identify and evaluate raw materials to meet development needs.
• Collaborate with global R&D teams to transfer knowledge, share best practices, and align development efforts.
• Test and validate fluids on industrial inkjet printers to ensure stability, performance, and usability.
• Document and report findings in accordance with quality standards and support investigations into printer-related fluid issues.
• Maintain a clean, safe lab environment and comply with all relevant health and safety regulations.
• Train team members in formulation techniques, equipment maintenance, and printer operation.
• Support regulatory compliance efforts and proactively monitor industry trends and changes.
• Participate in equipment calibration, maintenance, and evaluation of new technologies and lab tools.
• Perform other duties as required in support of R&D and product development initiatives.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with hazardous chemicals and laboratory safety protocols.
• Mechanical or electrical aptitude with a willingness to learn and troubleshoot industrial printing systems.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; ability to train or mentor others in software use.
• Ability to lift and safely handle materials up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to travel domestically or internationally as needed.

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE) and ability to apply this method in R&D strategy.
• Experience mentoring junior chemists or leading technical projects.
• Proficiency with analytical tools such as gas chromatography, UV-Vis, viscometers, Karl Fischer titration, and related methods.
• Background in pigment or dye chemistry and formulation in ink or coatings industries.
• Understanding of industry standards (e.g., ISO, cGMP, EuPIA).
• Knowledge of polymer chemistry and material interactions in coatings and inks.