Research Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.

Our Brands

Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:

• Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
• Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
• Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
• EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
• FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

JOB SUMMARY

Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with primary functions in solution and reagent preparation, sample homogenization, proximate analysis chemistry instrument use (balance, oven, furnace, and extractors), chemistry extractions and procedures, and glassware maintenance.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare and maintain chemical solutions
• Apply standard laboratory techniques in daily workload
• Inventory and report expendable supplies/materials needed for testing requirements
• Provide routine preventive maintenance by daily cleaning, sanitizing, and trash disposal
• Independently pursue an assigned series of processes, procedures, or techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures and customer requirements
• Maintain laboratory conditions, to include equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures
• Perform all activities in safe, hygienic, and efficient manner
• Share information in an open, and timely manner
• Maintain lab workspaces in a clean and organized manner at all times
• Assisting with managing priorities and schedule such that individual goals as well as team goals are achieved with encouraged participation in the Food Safety Net Services Team
• Responsible for the safety of oneself and others working within their area
• Responsible for the completion of required training

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field
• Minimum of 2 years of laboratory experience
• Training in general laboratory practices preferred
• Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods and procedures
• Broad knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures of a food testing laboratory
• BS degree in Life Science or related field preferred
• Ability to travel is preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other communications/computer components
• Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens
• Noise level varies from quiet to loud
• Temperature varies from hot to cold
• Color vision and depth perception
• Interactive and fast-paced team oriented tasks
• Overnight Travel may be required at the discretion of management
• Regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Schedule : Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards—such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives—may also apply where applicable.

Salary Range for Pay Transparency

$21—$23 USD

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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.