Chemist (Cosmetics) - 410897

Client Overview

Our client is a consumer products company that specializes in cosmetics and personal care products. They are currently seeking a Chemist (Cosmetics) who can operate in a very fast-paced environment.

Salary/Hourly Rate

$55k - $65k

Position Overview

The Chemist (Cosmetics) will lead technical efforts in formulating, innovating, and scaling powder-based and/or color cosmetic products, with occasional support for emulsion and anhydrous developments. This role requires collaboration across teams in a fast-paced setting.

Responsibilities Of The Chemist (Cosmetics)

• Develop and refine cosmetic formulations, including powder-based, anhydrous, and emulsion systems, in alignment with project specifications and customer objectives.
• Execute formulation projects from concept through development, including new product innovation, shade matching and extensions, reformulation, and performance enhancement.
• Identify and evaluate raw materials, formulation approaches, and processing methods to improve product aesthetics, functionality, stability, and manufacturability.
• Work with customers to establish product requirements, address formulation challenges, assess product attributes, and recommend solutions that meet technical and brand expectations.
• Communicate development progress and technical findings through laboratory demonstrations, prototype reviews, written reports, and presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor developments in cosmetic science, ingredient technologies, and market trends, particularly those related to powders, emulsions, and anhydrous formulations.
• Partner with teams across marketing, manufacturing, quality, regulatory, packaging, and corporate research to support successful product development and commercialization.
• Perform initial stability assessments on new and existing formulations, interpret results, and adjust formulas as needed to improve product consistency and durability.
• Maintain and update formulation records within DEVEX, ensuring compliance with established procedures, documentation requirements, BPM communication practices, and R&D standards.
• Support alignment of global research practices by coordinating with corporate applied research teams on testing procedures, technical data, and standardized development processes.
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory notebooks, batch documentation, and project records, communicating project status and development progress to the direct supervisor.
• Balance competing project deadlines and changing priorities while responding effectively to evolving customer needs and internal business requirements.
• Assist with additional laboratory, research, and departmental activities as needed.

Required Experience/Skills For The Chemist (Cosmetics)

• Approximately 1-3 years of hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation, product development, or a related laboratory-based R&D function.
• Foundational knowledge of cosmetic formulation principles, particularly powder technology, including pigments, binders, dispersions, and powder processing methods.
• Understanding of emulsion and anhydrous formulation systems.
• Familiarity with cosmetic ingredients, color cosmetics, and applicable laboratory and manufacturing practices, including GLP, GMP, FDA guidance, and international regulatory considerations.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-moving R&D setting where project requirements, deadlines, and priorities may change.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, with the ability to oversee multiple formulation assignments concurrently.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; familiarity with SAP, DEVEX, and other formulation or technical software.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical findings, present results, and communicate with customers.
• Strong analytical reasoning, mathematical aptitude, troubleshooting ability, and attention to detail.
• Collaborative and adaptable working style, with a professional approach to laboratory work and cross-functional partnerships.

Preferred Experience/Skills For The Chemist (Cosmetics)

• Experience developing color cosmetics, particularly pressed powders, loose powders, pigments, and other powder-based formulations.
• Exposure to cosmetic product scale-up, manufacturing trials, or transferring laboratory formulations into production.
• Familiarity with cosmetic stability testing, raw material evaluation, and formulation optimization to improve product performance and shelf life.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or another related scientific field is required.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k).
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Paid holidays.
• Additional benefits available.