R&D Scientist II – Materials / Polymer Focus

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