Research & Development Manager

Research & Development ManagerSanta Monica, CaliforniaO Positiv Health is a Los Angeles-based women's health company on a mission to support women through every stage of life—from their first period to well beyond their last. Since launching in 2018, O Positiv has reshaped the women's health space, tackling long-overlooked issues with innovative, science-backed products and boldly breaking taboos along the way. Our growing portfolio spans PMS & hormone balance, vaginal & urinary health, digestion, menopause, and conception support—offering vitamins, supplements, and personal care products that women trust.Today, O Positiv products are sold nationwide at Target, Walmart, CVS, Meijer, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and OPositiv.com. We're proud to hold the #1 Vaginal Probiotic nationwide and multiple top-performing products across major wellness categories. We are scaling fast and shaping the future of women's health. Our team combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for innovation and a commitment to impact. Join us, and you'll have the opportunity to grow alongside a company that's making a real difference.The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the VP of Research & Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.Responsibilities and DutiesBring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standardsConduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibilityStay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designsSubstantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claimsManage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch dateAssist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirementsProvide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literatureProvide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirementsSupport the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectationsQualifications and SkillsExperience:Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field3-6 years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industryExceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship managementInterpersonal:Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by exampleThrives in fast-paced environmentsStrong project management and prioritization skillsAbility to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individualsAdaptable to new technology and innovationsThoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adaptTeam-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-orientedExcitement for startups and building from the ground upApplicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.Hours and CompensationThe anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $160,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates.Job Type: Full-timePay based on prior experiencePosition will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remoteBenefits & PerksFlexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness DaysMonthly Social HoursMedical, Vision, and Dental Coverage401K with matching$50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefitsAn environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managersO Positiv is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.O Positiv believes in the power of building a diverse and culturally inclusive team. We seek candidates from all backgrounds to join our teams. We're driven to build a workplace based on inclusive behaviors and equitable systems, where all employees can bring their authentic selves, feel engaged, and share their perspectives as a valued member of O Positiv.