Want to lead exciting formulation development initiatives for Vapor Products? If you have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, food science or related field and experience with flavor formulation development and vapor product evaluations, we want to speak with you! We are currently looking for a Principal Scientist I, Vapor Formulation Design, to join our Innovative Product Development Vapor Vertical team in Richmond, VA but have flexibility for the role to be located in Richmond, VA or Middleton, WI.

What you will be doing:

• Lead the design and development of e-liquid vapor formulations across multiple vapor product platforms, applying Design Thinking principles to ensure product desirability, feasibility, and viability.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners (e.g., Flavor Houses) to accelerate flavor development for e-liquids, following sensory and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Perform sensory evaluations of vapor consumable formulations and apply modifications required for optimization.
• Collaborate on the planning and execution of product stewardship studies, including the toxicological assessment of formulations and other applicable testing.
• Collaborate on the planning and execution of sensory panels and consumer research studies to connect formulation design with sensory performance and consumer behavior.
• Drive the exploration and application of novel e-liquid/sensory solutions to support Next Generation vapor projects, working closely with vapor vertical technical leads and cross-functional teams.
• Assist Vapor Formulation team members with e-liquid specifications transfer and qualifications at Contract Manufacturing Organizations.
• Mentor and coach junior formulation scientists with e-liquid vapor formulation development, evaluation and optimization.
• Maintain thorough documentation throughout the development process in alignment with Product Lifecycle Management systems and Regulatory Quality Compliance requirements.

We want you to have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Food Science or related field with 7+ years of relevant experience. An advance degree is preferred.
• Experience in Product/Formulation Development, developing sensory experiences for 21+ Adult Tobacco Consumers. Experience in flavor formulation development is preferred.
• Experience working in a chemical lab environment following Quality Management System Practices (GMP-like or ISO).
• Experience with analytical laboratory instrumentation and methods is preferred.
• Highly motivated, able to work autonomously and in a group setting to learn and apply new skills and technologies
• Design Thinking, and Consumer Centric approaches to product development.
• High level proficiency with MS Office applications, especially Excel and PowerPoint
• Strong communication skills to include written and presentation skills.
• General office, lab and production environment requirements (wear lab or production safety equipment such as safety glasses, hair and beard nets etc.)
• Ability to travel.

The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $116,200.00 - $168,400.00.    

Why You’ll Love Building Your Career at Altria

At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported — both at work and in life. Here’s what you’ll find here:

• Work where life works for you — with flexible and remote options that fit your world, not the other way around.
• Own your time — start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully
• A place where you belong — where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real
• Get recognized for your work – annual merit increases and performance bonus
• A future you can count on — 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary
• Help with your goals — get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends
• Support for what matters most — comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
• Celebrating your milestones — paid parental and bonding leave for life’s biggest moments.
• Wellness that goes beyond work — programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life
• A culture that gives back — paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference

At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.