Jobs in Franklin Lakes, NJ

R&D Scientist II – Materials / Polymer Focus (Lab-Based) - 626501

Location: Franklin Lakes, NJ (Onsite – 5 days/week)

Duration: 12-month contract (W2)

Pay Rate: ~$35.75 - $37.75/hr.

Overview

We are seeking a junior-level R&D Scientist II to join a Specimen Management R&D team, supporting the development of blood collection devices (e.g., tubes, needles, plastic components).

This role is highly lab-focused (≈50%+ hands-on testing) and ideal for candidates with a background in materials science, polymer chemistry, or chemical engineering who enjoy bench work and experimental testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct material characterization and testing, including:
• FTIR, DSC, TGA, rheology, and mechanical testing
• Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC) and Thermal Cycle Analysis (TCA)
• Design and execute lab experiments and test protocols
• Perform root cause investigations related to material and product failures
• Support material selection, qualification, and vendor/material changes
• Prepare samples and prototypes for internal and external testing
• Document results and provide data-driven recommendations
• Assist with small-scale material assessments and innovation efforts
• Maintain lab equipment and follow Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, etc.)
• Support testing involving human blood samples (training and PPE provided)

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in: Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 2+ years of laboratory experience (industry or academic)
• Hands-on experience with materials testing and characterization
• Strong interest in polymer/material science (non-metal/ceramic focus)
• Comfortable working in a lab-heavy, hands-on role
• Basic knowledge of statistical tools (Excel, Minitab, etc.)
• Ability to conduct independent research and literature reviews

Preferred Qualifications

• Polymers or plastic materials (especially for medical devices)
• Material formulation or modification
• ESC, TCA, or similar testing methods
• Exposure to analytical chemistry techniques
• Experience working with biological materials or blood samples
• Background in tissue engineering or DNA-related work (nice-to-have)

Work Environment & Expectations

• 50%+ lab-based work (testing, characterization, experimentation)
• Remaining time focused on analysis, reporting, and innovation projects
• Fully onsite role (no remote option)
• No travel required
• Dynamic, fast-paced R&D environment
• Opportunity for long-term growth

Interview Process

• Initial screening with Hiring Manager
• Follow-up panel interview with project team (virtual via Teams)

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Early-career scientist with a strong materials/polymer background
• Curious, hands-on, and eager to learn
• Comfortable working independently in a lab setting
• Interested in medical device R&D and material innovation

We are looking for a skilled Technical Project Manager to lead product development initiatives from initial concept through launch. This role serves as the central connector between engineering, design, and business teams—ensuring clarity, alignment, and smooth execution throughout the full development cycle.

Responsibilities

• Define what the product must deliver and ensure requirements are clearly communicated across technical and non-technical teams.
• Guide projects from early concept through final launch, ensuring products meet quality, performance, and timing expectations.
• Translate complex technical challenges into clear direction for cross-functional partners while supporting select hands-on technical activities when needed.
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, ensuring milestones stay on track with internal goals and retailer timelines.
• Facilitate strong communication and alignment across global teams, providing ongoing visibility into project status, risks, and decision points.
• Prepare and deliver project updates to senior stakeholders, including recommendations, trade-offs, and key risks.
• Collaborate with engineering and project teams to ensure solutions meet both technical feasibility and business needs.
• Work in a fast-paced environment that values flexibility, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in project management or engineering, ideally within consumer products, plastics, or hardware development.
• Proven success managing full product lifecycles—from concept through production and launch.
• Strong technical foundation with an understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and product constraints.
• Ability to clearly communicate complex technical information to diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with CAD tools such as SolidWorks or CREO is a plus.
• Experience presenting to senior leadership; exposure to executive-level communication is beneficial.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to adapt quickly and work collaboratively across teams.

Salary Range (commensurate with experience)

$130,000 - $135,000 USD

St. Joseph's Health is recognized for the expertise and compassion of its highly skilled and responsive staff. The combined efforts of the organization's outstanding physicians, superb nurses, and dedicated clinical and professional staff have made us one of the most highly respected healthcare organizations in the state, the largest employer in Passaic County, and one of the nation's \"100 Best Places to Work in Health Care\".

Responsible for assisting patients with activities of daily living, provides basic care to acutely ill patients. Assists in the maintenance of a safe and clean environment. Performs EKG's and Venipuncture as directed by the Registered Nurse.

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred:

• Phlebotomy experience
• Basic Life Support certification
• PCA/PCT (Patient Care Associate/Patient Care Technician) diploma with 6 months to 1 year of previous work experience within the last 6 months in an healthcare setting OR
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification OR PCA/PCT diploma with National Health Career Association certification OR
• EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification OR
• Enrolled in an accredited nursing school program and has completed Nursing Fundamentals level coursework in lieu of PCA/PCT diploma/certification OR
• Provides evidence of completion in Nursing Fundamental level coursework OR
• Evidence of Completion in of a Nursing Assistant training program OR
• Home Health Aide experience

If the candidate has no prior clinical experience or training, yet has a HS diploma or an anticipated graduate in 3 months, SJH will train upon hire.

Effective January 2019, St. Joseph's Health requires certifications for Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) to be granted through the American Heart Association.

Effective 9/12/2019 to 9/20/2021:

Work requires a High School diploma or equivalent. BLS (Basic Life Support) certification required at time of hire or must obtain BLS certification within 6 months of hire, Phlebotomy/blood drawing experience preferred but will train, and 1 of the following: PCA/PCT (Patient Care Associate/Patient Care Technician) diploma with 6 months to 1 year of previous work experience within the last 6 months in an healthcare setting OR Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification OR PCA/PCT diploma with National Health Career Association certification OR EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification OR Enrolled in an accredited nursing school program and has completed Nursing Fundamentals level coursework in lieu of PCA/PCT diploma/certification OR provides evidence of completion in Nursing Fundamental level coursework OR evidence of completion in a Nursing Assistant training program OR 5 to 7 years of previous direct patient care hospital experience.

Prior to 9/12/2019:

Work requires a High School diploma or equivalent. BLS (Basic Life Support) certification required at time of hire or must obtain BLS certification within 6 months of hire, Phlebotomy/blood drawing experience preferred but will train, and 1 of the following: PCA/PCT (Patient Care Associate/Patient Care Technician) diploma with 6 months to 1 year of previous work experience within the last 6 months in an healthcare setting OR Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification OR PCA/PCT diploma with National Health Career Association certification OR EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification OR Enrolled in an accredited nursing school program and has completed Nursing Fundamentals level coursework in lieu of PCA/PCT diploma/certification

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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• Perform assembly-type functions using hand and power tools.
  
  
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions.
  
  
• Operate press brake, fastener machine, and index machine as required.
  
  
• Install wiring, lights, and hardware assemblies.
  
  
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and other shop equipment.
  
  
• Conduct visual inspections and ensure compliance with quality standards.
  
  
• Train and oversee assemblers (Lead level).
  
  
• Coordinate workflow and safety (Lead level).
  
  
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
  
  
• Ability to use measuring devices accurately.
  
  
• Strong math aptitude, including fractions and decimals.
  
  
• Basic computer navigation and documentation skills.
  
  
• Strong attention to detail and organizational ability.
  
  
• Critical thinking and problem-solving ability.
  
  
• Commitment to following company safety and operational procedures.
  
  
• Ability to lead, train, and evaluate other employees in assembly techniques (Lead level).
  
  

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• Associate Level: 1-2 years of related mechanical assembly experience.
  
  
• Staff Level: 2-4 years of professional mechanical assembly or fabrication experience.
  
  
• Lead Level: 5+ years of progressive experience in mechanical assembly, including supervisory or lead responsibilities in a manufacturing or defense environment.
  
  
• High School Diploma or GED required.
  
  
• Technical or vocational training in Mechanical Engineering or Manufacturing preferred.
  
  
• Associate's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution is a plus.