Andy Yates
Washington,DC
Summary
Biophysical Engineering & Biological Science student with hands-on experience in formulation chemistry, including independently developing a commercially sold haircare product from initial research through production.
Background in team leadership, math instruction, and communicating technical constraints to non-technical stakeholders. Seeking opportunities to apply interdisciplinary analytical skills in a research or applied science setting.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Chemical Technician
Herbs & Oils Haircare Essentials
Charlotte, NC
08.2023 - 09.2023
- Independently researched and self-taught surfactant chemistry, emulsion stability, and ingredient interactions to develop a commercially viable conditioner formulation from concept to finished product.
- Advised the Founder/CEO on formulation feasibility, communicating why specific chemical interactions failed and proposing alternative ingredient combinations that maintained product quality within target cost margins.
- Balanced product efficacy against material cost constraints, identifying ingredient substitutions and concentration adjustments that improved profit margins without compromising performance.
- Formulated a product that reached market and continues to generate active sales, demonstrating end-to-end involvement from R&D through commercial viability.
- Conducted iterative bench testing and stability assessments across formulation revisions, documenting results to inform subsequent development decisions.
Customer Service Cashier
Wayback Burgers
Woodbury, MN
02.2022 - 06.2023
- Processed customer transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering positive dining experiences.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of workstations to ensure operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with team members to improve service speed during peak hours.
- Trained new cashiers on procedures and best practices for cash handling.
- Provided support to fellow cashiers by stepping in during breaks or assisting with complex transactions as needed.
- Resolved customer complaints, leading to noticeable improvement in customer satisfaction ratings.
Shift Leader
Wayback Burgers
Woodbury, MN
06.2023 - 06.2024
- Promoted to Shift Leader after demonstrating reliability and operational competence over two years in a high-volume fast-casual environment.
- Supervised team members during peak hours, coordinating task delegation and shift coverage to maintain service speed and order accuracy.
- Trained and onboarded new hires on POS systems, cash handling procedures, and customer service standards.
- Managed inventory levels and stock rotation to minimize waste and ensure product availability.
- Resolved customer complaints independently, contributing to measurable improvement in satisfaction ratings.
Math Tutor
Family Friend
Woodbury, MN
03.2024 - 06.2024
- Assisted students in understanding mathematical concepts through personalized tutoring sessions.
- Monitored student progress and provided constructive feedback for improvement.
- Created a supportive learning environment that encouraged questions and exploration.
- Adapted teaching techniques based on student feedback and learning styles.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biophysical Engineering & Biological Science
American University
Washington, DC05-2028
High School Diploma -
East Ridge High School
Woodbury, MN06-2024
Skills
- Laboratory techniques
- Process optimization
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving
- Patience and composure
- Complex analysis
Timeline
Math Tutor
Family Friend
03.2024 - 06.2024
Chemical Technician
Herbs & Oils Haircare Essentials
08.2023 - 09.2023
Shift Leader
Wayback Burgers
06.2023 - 06.2024
Customer Service Cashier
Wayback Burgers
02.2022 - 06.2023
Bachelor of Science - Biophysical Engineering & Biological Science
American University
High School Diploma -
East Ridge High School