Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative R&D Specialist to support the development and commercialization of innovative tobacco products. In this role, you will contribute to the management of external scientific research partnerships, oversee tobacco field trials, and lead hands-on efforts in cutting and blending tobacco for prototype development. You will also manage prototype components, assist in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new formulations, conduct quality checks, and support overall research operations.

The ideal candidate will stay informed on emerging tobacco technologies and low-nicotine research, and work cross-functionally with internal teams to transition products from R&D to market readiness.

This is not your typical desk job. As an R&D Specialist, you’ll find yourself working across a variety of dynamic environments that go far beyond a traditional office setting. One day you might be analyzing data or drafting protocols at your desk, and the next, you're walking through rows of tobacco fields, overseeing crop trials, or conducting hands-on experiments in the lab.

You'll also have the opportunity to collaborate on the production floor—where innovative ideas are transformed into real, tangible prototypes. This role offers a unique blend of scientific inquiry, practical fieldwork, and cross-functional teamwork, making every day different and engaging.

If you're someone who thrives in a role that combines lab precision, field work, and collaborative problem-solving, this position offers the perfect balance of structure and exploration.

Essential Functions

• Project Coordination: Support the planning, execution, and tracking of external research collaborations and internal R&D initiatives.
• Tobacco Field Trial Management: Assist in organizing, monitoring, and collecting data from field trials to evaluate tobacco crop performance.
• Prototype Development: Lead the cutting and blending of tobacco materials to create experimental product prototypes.
• Component Management: Oversee sourcing, tracking, and inventory of raw materials and components used in prototype formulation.
• SOP Development: Assist in writing, reviewing, and maintaining standard operating procedures for new product processes and formulations.
• Quality Assurance: Conduct quality checks on materials and prototypes to ensure consistency and adherence to specifications.
• Research Support: Maintain accurate records of experiments and results and contribute to technical documentation and reporting.
• Technology Monitoring: Stay informed on advances in tobacco technology, low-nicotine research, and regulatory developments.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product development, regulatory, manufacturing, and commercialization teams to align R&D efforts with business objectives.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all safety protocols and ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.

These functions outlined are not intended to be a comprehensive list. Additional duties may be assigned at the accordance of the Supervisor, and other Company leadership members.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Agricultural Science, or related field)
• Foundational knowledge of plant molecular biology and genetics
• Applied chemistry experience in product development or formulation science
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills , with the ability to interpret complex data
• Working knowledge of regulatory standards relevant to product development and testing
• Proven project management skills , including documentation, reporting, and timeline tracking
• Cross-functional collaboration experience , with the ability to work effectively across departments
• Exceptional attention to detail , with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with inventory and data management systems
• Critical and creative thinker , capable of troubleshooting and problem-solving in dynamic environments
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities , ensuring deadlines are consistently met
• Strong communication skills , both written and verbal, tailored to technical and non-technical audiences
• Independent decision-making abilities , with sound business judgment and professional discretion

At this time, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship. Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship now or in the future

This is a hybrid role with travel.

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