Principal Scientist is a critical senior member of the R&D Microbiology Laboratory personnel that ensures compliance to safety, quality and compliance to all procedures and policies in the laboratory.

Ideal candidate acts as first line of communication as Subject Matter Expert on microbiological tests/procedures on cosmetic raw materials, bulk and finished goods in order to become a technical resource for junior members of the team. Identifies gaps and opportunities proactively in order to help teams capability, efficiency and agility.

Primary responsibilities will include independently being able to operate in technical setting, execute / guide on new policies, SOP’s, procedures, protocols. Review raw data / electronic notebook and document reviews, dispositioning tests and releasing data in compliance with Data Integrity. Ensures all laboratory equipment is being utilized in compliance with required validation, calibration and PM’s and being able to troubleshoot and escalate issues with proposed solutions in order to resolve issues independently and successfully in order to meet deadlines.

Cross trains self and others and as a senior member of the team and SME, has clear communication between laboratory personnel and Laboratory Director, and role models as a collaborative member to energize and enable junior members of the team.

Acts as a back up to Laboratory Director.

Work performed in EL R&D Microbiology requires contact with Biosafety level 2 organisms which have been associated with human disease and hazard. Because of this risk, the daily responsibilities require uninterrupted focus by the analyst to the task at hand due to the potential impact to the analyst, product and potentially the consumer ensuring compliance to all safety Personal Protective Equipment (Lab coat, safety glasses, gloves).

• Must be able to work in a high volume/fast paced laboratory with agility for change
• Complies with all Safety, GMP, Compliance and Data Integrity requirements.
• Manages and performs work independently with minimal supervision and guidance. Independently researching, initiating, executing, and reporting protocols. Supporting, initiating, and executing scientific R&D projects, equipment validations, and draft and review SOP’s, protocols, reports, deviations, investigation reports as necessary.
• Reporting, trending, and summarizing data.
• Isolates and cultures bacteria and other microorganisms. Identifies microorganisms by microscopic examination and chemical analyses of substances produced by these microorganisms.
• Reviews test results, dispositions and releases data following all data integrity principles.
• Investigates, evaluates and implements new laboratory techniques.
• Subject Matter Expert for all tests performed in the Microbiology lab (Challenge test, Preservative Neutralization, Antimicrobial screening, Plate Count, Environmental Monitoring, Inoculum prep etc.)
• Trouble shoot and problem solve as they arise and as needed for continuous improvement.
• Perform microbial tests in the lab as needed as service support.
• Assists immediate supervisor in other functions and duties as assigned.
• Screen raw materials for anti-microbial activity.

Qualifications

• Bachelors’ degree in Microbiology, Biology, or Chemistry
• 5+ years’ experience in a laboratory setting
• Strong technical and interpersonal skills
• Good communication skills
• Works well both independently and part of a team
• Excellent time management skills
• Familiar with current GMP, GLP and GDP requirements, aseptic technique and USP and ISO methods
• Knowledge of Windows based computer programs and electronic notebooks.

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $82,500 to $135,500. Exact salary depends on several factors such as experience, skills, education, and budget. Salary range may vary based on geographic location. In addition to base salary, this position is eligible for participation in a highly competitive bonus program with possibility for overachievement based on performance and company results.

In addition, The Estée Lauder Companies offers a variety of benefits to eligible employees, including health insurance coverage, wellness and family support programs, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plans, paid leave programs, education-related programs, paid holidays and vacation time, and many others. Many of these benefits are subsidized or fully paid for by the company.

Job: Research & Development
Primary Location: Americas-US- Job Type: Standard
Schedule: Full-time
Shift: 1st (Day) Shift
Job Number: 2312479

We are an equal opportunity employer. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. It is Company's policy not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. The Company will endeavor to provide a reasonable accommodation consistent with the law to otherwise qualified employees and prospective employees with a disability and to employees and prospective employees with needs related to their religious observance or practices. Should you wish to apply for this position or any other position with the Company and you believe you require assistance to complete an application or participate in an interview, please contact USApplicantAccommodations@Estee.com.

The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) is the global leader in prestige beauty. ELC is the only company focused solely on prestige makeup, skin care, fragrance and hair care with a diverse portfolio of 25+ brands sold in approximately 150 countries and territories. Infused throughout the organization is a passion for creativity and innovation — a desire to push the boundaries and invent the unexpected — as we continue the bold work of the company’s founder Estée Lauder.