Balchem is committed to making the world a healthier place by delivering trusted, innovative, and science-based solutions for the health and nutritional needs of the world. Balchem employs approximately 1,400 employees worldwide who provide the service, quality, and technology that enables our customers to win with their customers. We have built a reputation for delivering results to all of our stakeholders. Founded in 1967, Balchem, a Maryland corporation, became a publicly-traded company in 1970 and is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol “BCPC.” Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey, and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the U.S. and Europe. The Company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition and Health, Animal Nutrition and Health, and Specialty Products.
Position Summary
The Senior/Principal Scientist will lead strategic, long-term research initiatives within Balchem’s Animal Nutrition & Health business. This role is ideal for a highly experienced scientist with deep expertise in chemistry and proven success in driving innovation from concept through commercialization. The successful candidate will spearhead complex R&D projects, develop next-generation technologies, and serve as a thought leader in advancing Balchem’s scientific capabilities. This position requires a visionary approach to problem-solving, strong communication in multidisciplinary teams, and the ability to translate scientific breakthroughs into commercial success.
Essential Functions
Lead and design advanced research programs focused on chemical formulation, encapsulation technologies, and material science for animal nutrition applications.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Commercial, and Regulatory teams to ensure seamless scale-up.
Monitor global technology trends, assess competitive landscapes, and identify opportunities for disruptive innovation.
Serve as the internal subject matter expert on microencapsulation, agglomeration, and rumen-protected nutrient technologies
Champion safety and quality standards across all R&D activities.
Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for improving processes and formulations.
Apply advanced experimental design (DOE) and statistical modeling to accelerate discovery and optimize performance.
Conduct literature searches to support ongoing projects and summarize findings for the team.
Represent Balchem at industry conferences and technical forums.
Perform duties as assigned.
The working environment will include office, laboratory, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments and may require up to 10% business travel.
Qualifications
5-10+ years of progressive experience in R&D within specialty chemicals, food, nutraceutical, or pharmaceutical industries.
Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, Physics, Food Science, or Polymer Science.
Required Skills
Demonstrated expertise in formulation chemistry
Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry, including controlled-release systems.
Experience with polymeric formulations, emulsions, and encapsulation technologies.
Experience with advanced material characterization techniques (DSC, rheology, microscopy, texture analysis, etc.).
Proven track record of leading complex projects from ideation to commercialization.
Strong publication and patent history showcasing innovative contributions.
Proficiency with DOE and statistical tools.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
History of successful scale-up in industrial settings.
Demonstrated ability to develop and protect intellectual property, including patent drafting and strategy.
Preferred Skills
Experience with the chemistry and functional properties of lipids.
Expertise in colloid and interface science.
Knowledge of powder technology, including granulation, agglomeration, and particle engineering.
Proficiency in analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, NMR, and particle size analysis.
Ability to leverage AI-powered platforms.\
Familiarity with regulatory frameworks for animal feed and related products.
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Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.
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Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.
The salary range for this role is between $120,000 and $150,000 per year.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
Industries
Food and Beverage Services
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