Scientist Group Leader (CLS/ACES)

Description

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ:CENT and CENTA), is a leading innovator, marketer and producer of quality branded products for the pet, lawn and garden supplies markets. The Central Life Sciences (CLS) business unit is dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and the protection of companion animals, economic animals, plants, stored grains and the environment from damaging pests. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, profit sharing bonus, education assistance program and access to on-demand pay, and because our employees are so important, we have onsite events throughout the year to show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dynamic individual to lead a group of dedicated analytical and environmental science chemists in our Dallas, TX laboratory!

Key Responsibilities

• Provides support of existing products and new registrations by obtaining results through analytical testing.
• Maintains laboratory facilities in an orderly and functional condition.
• Supervises group of chemists and technicians in performing analyses and routine tasks.
• Performs analyses that are specified by the Analytical Laboratory Director or as outlined in established instructions or procedures. Work is subject to regular guidance and review by the Director.
• Maintains, calibrates, and operates complex laboratory instrumentation such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC).
• Assists in developing and validating new test procedures for chemical analysis in order to meet requirements by regulatory agencies.
• Assists in preparing appropriate standard operating procedures (SOPs) protocols and regulatory requirements. Assure that all work done is in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) set by all appropriate government agencies and is properly documented. Maintains proficiency in US EPA and FDA guidelines.
• Serve as an Analytical Chemistry representative on assigned Project Teams and follow the Commercialization Process for development of new products. Prepare written reports and presentations on the planning, progress, and status of activities in analytical chemistry to the Project Teams.
• Foster close communication and sharing of information with other Central Garden & Pet scientists.
• Communicate as needed with other groups within Central Garden & Pet concerning corporate policies, resources, technologies, etc.
• Keep abreast of current and emerging technical developments through available information resources and continued education at courses and seminars.
  
  

Minimum Experience & Education

• BS in Chemistry or equivalent and >6 years analytical laboratory experience or
• MS in Chemistry or equivalent and >4 years analytical laboratory experience or
• PhD in Chemistry or equivalent and >2 years analytical laboratory experience and
• 2-4 years people management experience is required
  
  

Qualifications

• The highest degree of confidentiality and discretion required. Integrity must be beyond reproach.
• The ability to effectively supervise others.
• The ability to effectively communicate.
• The ability to use and operate laboratory instruments.
• Skills in analytical chemistry are paramount.
• Search the scientific literature to keep abreast of new developments in chemical analysis.
• A high competence in analytical chemistry is required.
• Aspects of organic chemistry, physical chemistry and mathematics such as calculus, algebra, statistics support experimental design and approaches to problem solving.
• Verbal and written communication skills must convey complex aspects of analytical results to those with little or no chemical background.
• The ability to use laboratory computer systems, office computer systems and applications effectively is required.
  
  

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The position involves the occasional handling of large equipment and supplies necessary for the everyday operation of the analytical laboratory (for example: chemical waste containers and large compress gas cylinders). Also, very large sample sizes are sometimes encountered. Physical exertion commensurate to the handling of such materials and the ability to move as much as 50 pounds is required.
• Standard procedures must be carefully followed in working with potentially hazardous equipment and materials. There is exposure to equipment and materials at extremely high temperatures (ovens and GCs), and cryogenic temperatures (liquid nitrogen). Appreciation for the safe handling of flammable liquids, compressed gases, acids, bases, and toxic chemicals is required. The use of a hard hat, respirator mask, and other safety equipment is necessary at times.
• Work hours are divided between the office and the analytical laboratories. Much time is spent with computer and deskwork. Safety apparel is required in the lab or production areas, i.e. safety glasses (always), lab coat, gloves, dust masks (as appropriate).
  
  

Benefits Package & Employee Programs

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Free Life and Disability Insurance
• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick time
• Employee Assistance Program
• Access to thousands of free online courses
• Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!
• Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications)
• Referral Program with cash bonus
• Access to on-demand pay
• Paid parental leave
  
  

Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2023 net sales of $3.3 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the Pet and Garden industries. The Company’s innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Cadet®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Four Paws®, Kaytee®, K&H®, Nylabone® and Pennington®, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central is based in Walnut Creek, California and has 6,700 employees across North America and Europe. Visit www.central.com to learn more.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.