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Director Formulation Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Frontage Laboratories

Analytical Chemist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Prepare and review Method Development/Validation and Dose Formulation Analysis (DFA) reports for GLP toxicology studies * Function as Study Director on analytical validation studies * Ensure ...

Saul Ewing

Director of Engagement

Chicago, IL · On-site

This role will work collaboratively with Attorney Recruiting, Professional Development, Human ... formulation of firm-wide policies, systems, and initiatives related to firm member experience ...

The US Oncology Network

Managed Care Director

Dyer, IN · On-site

Directs the formulation and execution of all managed care initiatives and strategies that will ... This includes incorporation of practice reporting, outcomes measures, etc. developed and used in ...

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All JobsFormulation Development JobsDirector Formulation Development JobsDirector Formulation Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Director Formulation Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$91.7K

$197.2K

$296.2K

How much do director formulation development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for director formulation development in Chicago, IL is $197,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $256,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the major responsibilities and day-to-day activities for a Director Formulation Development?

As a Director Formulation Development, you will oversee the design and optimization of drug formulations, lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, and ensure that projects meet quality, budget, and timeline expectations. Your daily activities often include strategic planning, reviewing progress reports, troubleshooting formulation challenges, and collaborating with regulatory, manufacturing, and quality assurance departments. You may also interact with upper management to report on key milestones and contribute to long-term product development strategies. This role offers opportunities to influence project pipelines and play a central part in bringing new therapies to market.

What is a Director Formulation Development job?

A Director of Formulation Development leads the design and optimization of pharmaceutical formulations, ensuring they meet quality, regulatory, and performance standards. They oversee research, guide teams in developing new drug delivery systems, and collaborate with regulatory and manufacturing teams. This role requires expertise in chemistry, pharmaceutics, and process development to ensure successful product commercialization. Additionally, they manage project timelines, budgets, and technical challenges to drive innovation in drug formulation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Director Formulation Development position, and why are they important?

A Director Formulation Development typically requires an advanced degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, or a related field, along with significant experience in drug formulation and team management. Familiarity with industry-standard formulation software, regulatory compliance systems, and relevant certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are highly valued. Excellent leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills help set high performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are critical for driving innovative product development, ensuring regulatory compliance, and effectively leading cross-functional teams.

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Director Formulation Development jobs near you
R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation

R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation

Simple Mills

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Simple Mills is on a mission to transform the way food is made, creating nourishing products with astounding ingredients and amazing taste. Founded in 2012 by Katlin Smith, our brand has redefined center-aisle grocery by delivering better-for-you products made with unique, nutrient-dense ingredients. Today, we're a category leader and the #1 natural brand in multiple segments, with distribution in over 30,000 stores nationwide.
Now, as part of Flowers Foods, we're entering an exciting new phase of growth-expanding our reach, accelerating innovation, and amplifying brand awareness, all while preserving the integrity of what makes Simple Mills special. Our commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is both delicious and nutritious. Whether it's watermelon seed flour in our cookies or butternut squash in our crackers, we craft our products with innovative, wholesome ingredients that deliver extraordinary taste.
Our work has been recognized by Fast Company as a Brand That Matters and a Most Innovative Company, and has been featured in Vogue, Forbes, Women's Health, and NPR's How I Built This. In 2024, Inc. named us one of its Best Workplaces, reflecting our dedication to fostering an inspiring and inclusive environment where passionate individuals can make a difference.
Join us as we shape the future of food. Learn more at www.simplemills.com.
Requirements
Role Description
The R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation will play a critical leadership role in Chicago, driving technical strategy and execution across renovation, productivity, and commercialization initiatives. This role will lead cross-functional product transformation work, translate business priorities into clear technical plans, and guide formulation decisions that strengthen product quality, operational feasibility, cost performance, and brand integrity.
The position will report to the Sr. Director of R&D, Portfolio Transformation and responsibilities will include:
Technical Expertise
  • Execute portfolio transformation strategy, including alternate ingredient evaluation and approval, capacity expansion commercialization and production support.
  • Create and prepare technical documentation, ensure data integrity, and deliver decision-ready reporting.
  • Lead and execute onsite plant trials, ingredient screening, sensory evaluation, and experimental design with technical rigor.
  • Resolve formulation and ingredient challenges by diagnosing root causes, aligning options, and escalating risks.

Leadership
  • Manage resources, priorities, and capacity to deliver project goals, timelines, and business commitments.
  • Build trust, clarity, and accountability across contributors, cross-functional partners, and external collaborators.
  • Coach and develop team capability through clear feedback, technical guidance, and strong decision-making.
  • Champion a culture that balances speed, rigor, learning, accountability, and collaborative problem-solving.

Project Management
  • Own renovation, productivity, and commercialization projects from concept through launch with clear governance.
  • Align Marketing, Operations, Quality, Procurement, Finance and suppliers around executable technical plans.
  • Anticipate risks, tradeoffs, resource needs, and decisions to keep projects moving efficiently.

Business Acumen
  • Steward the Simple Mills mission through product decisions that advance quality, integrity, and trust.
  • Improve ways of working that increase efficiency, strengthen partnership, and scale R&D execution.
  • Use consumer, category, cost, and manufacturing insights to prioritize high-impact opportunities.
  • Balance quality, ingredient standards, feasibility, timing, and financial goals in technical decisions.
  • Performs other projects as assigned

Position Requirements
    • Minimum 8 years in R&D in the Food Industry
    • Bachelor's degree in Food Science or a related technical field.
    • Experience in Bakery formulation preferred
    • Strong data interpretation, sensory evaluation and problem-solving skills
    • Knowledge of natural ingredients, clean-label formulation and certifications (Non-GMO Project Verified, GFCO, Organic, Non-UPF Verified)
    • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
    • The ability to travel up to 30% to support project work, supplier engagement, manufacturing trials, and cross-functional collaboration.
    • Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal communication skills.
    • Familiarity with Microsoft Office, especially Excel, Outlook and Forms
    • Ability to work independently and prioritize competing tasks and timelines
    • Self-starter with strong attention to detail and follow-through
    • Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry
    • Familiarity with R&D data tools (e.g., TraceGains, Electronic Lab Notebooks)
    • A personal connection to the Simple Mills mission and a fervent desire to improve the food system to help people and the planet thrive.

Benefits
Working at Simple Mills
At Simple Mills, we're not just building a brand, we're leading a movement that's transforming how food is made and enjoyed. If you're passionate about purpose-driven work and crave a role where you can have a meaningful impact, this is your chance to be part of something bigger.
Why Join Us?
  • Be a Change-Maker
    Play a key role in redefining the food industry, crafting products that nourish people and contribute to a healthier planet.
  • Thrive in a Mission-Driven Community
    Work alongside a dynamic team of innovators and food lovers who are committed to positive change and bold ideas.
  • A Workplace Where You Belong
    We foster an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Inclusion and belonging are at the heart of our culture, ensuring that everyone can thrive.
  • A Culture of Integrity and Impact
    We don't just talk about doing good, we live it. Our team is committed to ethical practices, responsible sourcing, and making decisions that drive real, positive change.
  • Grow with People-First Leadership
    Our supportive leadership team is dedicated to mentorship, collaboration, and your long-term success.
  • Continuous Learning & Development
    Whether through hands-on training, innovative learning platforms, or career growth opportunities, we invest in your professional development.

At Simple Mills, you'll have the chance to make an impact while working in a collaborative and inspiring environment. If you're ready to shape the future of food, let's talk.
Benefits
We recognize that our people are our greatest asset. That's why we offer a highly competitive total rewards package designed to support your financial well-being, health, and overall quality of life.
  • Competitive Compensation: This role offers a salary range of $105,000 - $120,000
  • Annual Bonus Opportunity: Eligible for an annual bonus as part of our commitment to recognizing team contributions and company success.
  • Holistic Benefits: A variety of health, financial, and wellness programs to help you feel your best and plan for the future.
  • Time to Recharge: We believe your best work comes when you have space to rest, refocus, and show up fully-our time off approach is built with that in mind.
  • Everyday Well-Being: From lifestyle perks to innovation shipments, we find meaningful ways to support you in living simply and feeling well.

We're committed to taking care of our people-so you can focus on making an impact.
Work Model at Simple Mills
Our work model is role-dependent and team focused. With remote, hybrid, or in-office positions, each role is classified by what best supports the needs of the team.
  • This position will be hybrid: a balance of in-person and virtual work. Hybrid employees will work from our Chicago, IL office at least twice per week, and as needed based on project work. This role may require travel up to 30% to support project work, supplier engagement, manufacturing trials, and cross-functional collaboration. When working remotely, employees must work from a designated location in the United States (the new hire's permanent residence, as documented in our HR System, Rippling) with sufficient internet access to support video conferencing. Safety protocols in accordance with CDC recommendations are followed.

At Simple Mills, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and inclusion. Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, past or present military service, physical or mental disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of business need, job requirements, and individual qualifications. #LI-DNI
Simple Mills is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Simple Mills will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact careers@simplemills.com.

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