Analytical Chemist – R&D

TrendPac is one of Australia’s leading contract manufacturers of household, personal care and cleaning products. We’re investing heavily in innovation, automation and technical capability – and we’re growing our R&D team to match. 

We’re looking for an Analytical Chemist who loves the hands-on side of chemistry and wants to see their work become real products. This is a role for someone who is just as comfortable running a formulation trial as they are getting to the bottom of a tricky batch issue – and who takes pride in data that’s accurate, defensible and useful. 

About the Role 

Your primary focus will be product research, formulation development, analytical testing and innovation, working under the technical direction of our R&D Value Stream Manager. You’ll be involved in formulation trials, raw material assessments, stability studies, new product development (NPD), technical investigations and scale-up from lab to factory. 

You’ll also be our go-to analytical specialist for QC and Compounding. As routine in-process testing moves to our compounders through Quality at Source, your support will centre on batch troubleshooting, analytical verification, specification control and resolving technical quality issues. 

You’ll report to the QC Laboratory Manager, with a dotted line to the R&D Value Stream Manager for R&D work and project priorities – a structure designed to grow as our R&D function and Quality at Source model mature. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

Research & Development 

• Formulation development – develop, evaluate and improve new and existing formulations through lab trials, sampling, prototypes and product performance testing. 
• Raw materials – assess new, alternative and existing raw materials for suitability, quality, compatibility and performance. 
• Stability studies – plan and run stability, compatibility, production stability and end-of-shelf-life studies, then analyse and report the findings. 
• NPD & scale-up – contribute to product innovation, formulation optimisation and lab-to-manufacturing trials, providing technical input during scale-up. 
• Problem solving – investigate formulation or processing problems, recommend improvements and keep clear experimental records and technical reports. 

Analytical Chemistry 

• Carry out chemical, physical and instrumental analysis of raw materials, lab samples, bulk solutions and finished products, and interpret results against requirements. 
• Perform sampling, solution and reagent preparation, titrations and wet-chemistry testing; assist with microbiological testing and environmental monitoring where trained. 
• Develop, verify, review and transfer analytical methods, and help prepare or update specifications, lab protocols and SOPs. 

QC, Compounding & Quality at Source Support 

• Provide designated QC testing and technical support, as routine in-process checks transition to Compounding. 
• Support investigations into non-conforming results, manufacturing deviations and batch performance – including chemical adjustments and bulk-solution rework assessments. 
• Be the analytical adviser to Compounding, Quality and Manufacturing on troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, specification control and corrective actions. 

Lab Systems, Safety & Continuous Improvement 

• Maintain accurate testing records, databases and QMS documentation; prepare and review reports, methods and procedures. 
• Complete and document routine equipment calibration, verification and maintenance, and keep the lab running efficiently. 
• Work safely and to standard under GMP, GLP, WHS and 5S – and actively look for ways to do things better. 

What You’ll Bring 

• A degree in Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Chemical Science or a closely related discipline. 
• Hands-on experience with wet chemistry, laboratory instrumentation, experimental work and interpreting analytical results. 
• Exposure to product development or formulation work – highly regarded. 
• Sound knowledge of product specifications, QMS, GMP/GLP, laboratory safety and good documentation practice. 
• Strong technical problem-solving, organisation and communication skills. 
• The ability to build strong working relationships across R&D, Quality and Manufacturing. 

Our Values – How We Work 

At TrendPac, our RAISE values guide everything we do. Here’s what they look like in this role: 

Respect 

Every voice counts – from the lab bench to the compounding floor. You’ll share knowledge generously and value the expertise of the people around you. 

Achieving Together 

Great products are a team effort. You’ll work hand-in-hand with R&D, Quality, Compounding and Manufacturing to solve problems and get products over the line. 

Integrity 

Results you can stand behind. Accurate data, honest reporting and GMP/GLP discipline – even when no one’s watching. 

Stewardship 

Right first time, every time. You’ll help reduce waste, rework and cost, and support more sustainable formulations. 

Excellence 

Always improving. You’ll bring curiosity, sharpen our methods and help turn new ideas into better products. 

Why TrendPac 

• Permanent full-time role with a stable, growing Central Coast manufacturer. 
• Real R&D work – formulation trials, NPD and scale-up that end up in products people use every day. 
• Genuine variety: part innovation, part analytical problem-solver, working right alongside production. 
• A role designed to grow with our expanding R&D function, with investment in your training and development. 
• A safety-first, quality-first culture where your technical expertise is trusted and valued. 
• Be part of a purpose-led team – “Guardians of Cleanliness, Health and Sustainability.” 

How to Apply 

If you’re a chemist who wants to create, improve and solve – and see your work make a real difference – we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now with your current resume and a short cover letter outlining your analytical laboratory experience and any formulation or product development work. Applications will be accepted for the full advertised period. 

Trend Laboratories Pty Ltd (TrendPac) is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.