Senior Formulation Chemist for Pet Waste Spray

We are an innovative startup developing a groundbreaking enzymatic spray designed to rapidly dissolve dog waste on contact, utilizing a protease/lipase enzyme blend with a unique foaming delivery mechanism. Having successfully completed initial market validation, technical feasibility analysis, and provisional patent filing, we are now seeking a highly experienced and **proactive Senior Formulation Chemist** to lead our R&D efforts from concept to a shelf-ready prototype, working collaboratively alongside our existing research team in a fast-paced startup environment. This is a critical role for a **self-starter** who can independently drive formulation development, manage sourcing, and conduct rigorous testing. You will be working with a cutting-edge product that addresses a significant consumer pain point in the pet care market, and your ability to **proactively overcome challenges** will be key to our success. ## Responsibilities: * Develop and optimize the enzymatic formulation for maximum efficacy, stability, and environmental safety. * Identify, source, and evaluate industrial-grade enzymes (proteases, lipases, amylases, cellulases) and other raw materials. * Design and conduct bench-top and pilot-scale experiments to test product performance, stability, and shelf-life. * Collaborate on the integration of the formulation with a Bag-on-Valve (BOV) foaming delivery system. * Ensure all formulations comply with relevant regulatory standards (e.g., EPA, FDA for consumer sprays). * Collaborate effectively with our internal research team, providing technical guidance and sharing insights. * Document all research, experiments, and findings meticulously. * **Proactively communicate** progress, challenges, and proposed solutions with clear action plans. ## Required Skills & Experience: * **Minimum 7+ years of experience** in formulation chemistry, preferably in consumer packaged goods (CPG), cleaning products, or pet care. * **Proven expertise with enzyme-based formulations**, including knowledge of enzyme kinetics, stability, and compatibility with various surfactants and excipients. * **Experience with foaming delivery systems**, ideally Bag-on-Valve (BOV) technology. * Strong understanding of chemical stability, shelf-life testing, and quality control. * Familiarity with regulatory requirements for consumer chemical products (EPA, FDA). * Exceptional problem-solving skills and a **demonstrated proactive, independent work ethic**. * Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced startup environment. * Strong communication and documentation skills. * **Must have access to a fully equipped laboratory (either personal or through a 3rd-party facility) capable of conducting chemical formulation, stability testing, and performance evaluation.** ## Preferred Qualifications: * Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. * Experience in scaling up formulations from lab to manufacturing. * Prior experience working with startups or new product development. ## Screening Questions: 1. Describe your most relevant experience with enzyme-based formulations. What specific enzymes have you worked with, and what were the key challenges you faced regarding stability or efficacy? 2. Do you have experience with Bag-on-Valve (BOV) or other foaming aerosol delivery systems? If so, please elaborate on your role and contributions. 3. How do you approach sourcing raw materials and obtaining samples from industrial suppliers, especially when working with a new product concept? 4. What is your understanding of the regulatory landscape (e.g., EPA, FDA) for enzyme-based consumer sprays, particularly in the pet care sector? 5. This is a fast-moving project. How do you ensure proactive communication and independent progress when working remotely or as a consultant? 6. Please provide an example of a time you encountered a significant technical challenge in a formulation project and how you successfully overcame it. 7. Do you have access to a fully equipped laboratory (personal or 3rd-party) for formulation, testing, and evaluation? Please describe your lab setup or your relationship with a 3rd-party facility.