R&D Household Associate US

About Us

Vestacy is a standalone company (carved out from Reckitt) with a clear purpose: to transform houses into homes. We’re home to some of the world’s most trusted brands (Air Wick, Calgon, Cillit Bang, and Mortein) helping millions of people care for the spaces they live in every day.

Backed by Advent, a leading global private equity firm, we have the freedom to think big and move fast. With almost 3,000 colleagues across 20+ countries, we see every person as a Founder, empowered to make bold decisions and shape what’s next.

We care for our company the way you care for your own home: with energy, passion, and pride. Here, you’ll find space to grow, opportunities to lead, and the support to thrive. Together, we’re building something extraordinary.

​Research & Development​

In Research and Development, we're full of highly skilled talents - all working to create cleaner homes. We continually seek out new opportunities by using science, our entrepreneurial flare and our fearless innovation to develop and enhance our existing portfolio, never compromising on quality or performance.

We do the right thing, always, by ensuring we act with responsibility and integrity, by complying with regulatory legislation across the globe, whilst ensuring our products are safe for our consumers and are to the highest quality.

The size of our organisation means you'll have the opportunity to learn and work in different functions within R&D, giving you exposure to different disciplines, teams and environments. You will also have access to our Research and Development Academy, designed to develop our team and allow you to grow in our great organisation.

About the role

As an R&D Household Associate, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of household products that millions of consumers rely on every day. This role bridges science and consumer needs — combining technical expertise with creativity to deliver safe, effective, and sustainable solutions.

You’ll lead product development initiatives from concept to launch, working cross-functionally with Marketing, Supply, Regulatory, and other teams to bring ideas to life. Beyond project execution, you’ll play a key role in advancing our innovation pipeline, ensuring our brands remain competitive and relevant in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

This is a dynamic opportunity for someone who thrives on problem-solving, collaboration, and driving tangible impact. You’ll not only contribute to breakthrough products but also help shape the processes and strategies that fuel long-term growth.

Your responsibilities

The R&D Associate will work with technical product development on key projects for the R&D team.  
  
•    Formulate and develop new products and technologies based on relevant consumer insights in support of brand initiatives.
•    Lead key projects through the product development process as R&D representative.
•    Work cross-functionally and be R&D lead on project teams to achieve key milestones and objectives.
•    Understand and communicate the impact of R&D activities to the regional business.
•    Provide R&D Technical support for the North American business including:
•    Direct the routine evaluation of existing commercial products, including performance and stability testing and claim support.
•    Direct the evaluation of first production samples for new product launches, including performance and stability testing.
•    Direct performance and stability testing on GM expansion projects and new supplier approvals.
•    Provide support to Supply for production startups, quality improvements, and cost savings projects.
•    Provide support for Claim Support on EPD’s and existing brands.  Represent R&D on TV copy and demos.
•    Respond to consumer complaints and quality issues, competitors’ challenges and legal inquiries concerning technical matters relating to products marketed within the region.
•    Collaborate with Marketing to develop, prioritize and execute project portfolio.
•    Lead and advance multiple projects through front-end product development. 
•    Support team in the development of technical product strategies to support product development and short-term and long-term innovation.  Must be self-starting and work independently.
•    Foster strategic growth in innovation processes and systems across team and organization.
•    Develop technical product strategies to support product development and short-term and long-term innovation.
•    Foster personal development growth with continuous coaching and feedback on career development as per the R&D Guiding Principles and Corporate Core Values.

The experience we're looking for

•    BS/BA degree in a related science and 5 years’ experience, or MS degree in a related science and 3 years’ experience, or PhD in a related science and 1 year relevant experience in Personal Care and/or Surface Care
•    Experience and/or proven track record of successful delivery of technical projects in a FMCG company.
•    Strong understanding of the product development process from concept ideation to launch.
•    Proven Project Management skills including timeline management and coordination of key stake holders.
•    Strong formulation knowledge and understanding of chemical interactions.
•    Understanding of Intellectual Property, Licensing, and Competitive Intelligence
•    Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
•    Strong interpersonal skills to nurture teamwork and foster an environment of achievement.
•    Results-oriented and self-motivating.
•    Ability to display a degree of flexibility and adapt effectively to change.
•    Excellent networking and communication skills.
•    Proficient with common software, including MSOffice.
•    Understanding of regulated products under regulatory bodies (EPA, FDA, BPR).
•    Proactive mindset fitting with RB Core Values and able to exhibit entrepreneurial attributes.
•    This role is not currently sponsoring visas or considering international movement at this time.

The skills for success

R&D, Product Development, Product Lifecycle Management, Commercial Awareness, Business Partnership, Collaboration, Partnership Building, Project Leadership, Stakeholder Management, Ability to Challenge the Status Quo, Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Adaptability, Analytical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Formulation Expertise, Science, Chemistry, Intellectual Property Awareness, Regulatory Knowledge (EPA, FDA, BPR), Competitive Intelligence, Communication, Networking, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Results Orientation, Flexibility, MS Office Proficiency.

What we offer

We believe great work deserves great rewards. That’s why we offer numerous local benefits and global benefits designed to help you grow and thrive, such as career mobility opportunities, a referral program, access to our online learning academy, mental wellbeing support, and short-term bonus incentives.

US salary ranges

$91,000.00  -  $137,000.00

US pay transparency

The base salary range for this role will vary based on experience in job and industry, training and education, skills relevant to the position, and other factors permitted by law. In addition to the base salary, the position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, which is subject to change each year. We offer eligible employees competitive benefits including medical, prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance; paid time off for vacation, sick and Company recognized holidays; a 401(k) plan; 16-week paid parental leave or 26 weeks for the birthing parent; adoption and fertility support; tuition reimbursement; discounts; and much more. Our compensation and benefits packages aim to give our talent the reward, protection, and peace of mind they deserve. If reasonable accommodation is needed to complete your application, please contact NAtalentacquisition@reckitt.com. We are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals.

Equality

We believe the best teams are built like great homes: on strong foundations and room to grow. That’s why we hire for potential as well as experience. If you resonate with our purpose, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t tick every box. We’re committed to equal opportunity for all, regardless of age, ability, background, identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Together, we create a space where everyone can thrive.