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Contract Cosmetic Formulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

e.l.f. Beauty

Sr. Chemist, rhode

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $140K/yr

Cosmetics since 2004 and driven our portfolio expansion. Today, our multi-brand portfolio includes ... Independently work on formulation projects based on product briefs provided by Product Development ...

e.l.f. Beauty

Sr. Chemist, rhode

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $140K/yr

Cosmetics since 2004 and driven our portfolio expansion. Today, our multi-brand portfolio includes ... Independently work on formulation projects based on product briefs provided by Product Development ...

e.l.f. Beauty

Sr. Chemist, rhode

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$105K - $140K/yr

Cosmetics since 2004 and driven our portfolio expansion. Today, our multi-brand portfolio includes ... Independently work on formulation projects based on product briefs provided by Product Development ...

Murad

Global Head of R&D

El Segundo, CA · Hybrid

Product Development & Formulation * Oversee development of cosmetic, OTC drug, and nutraceutical ... Maintain strong working relationships with contract manufacturers, testing laboratories, and ...

Murad

Global Head of R&D

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Product Development & Formulation * Oversee development of cosmetic, OTC drug, and nutraceutical ... Maintain strong working relationships with contract manufacturers, testing laboratories, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

Sigan America LLC

Analytical Chemist

Ottawa, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Partner with formulation chemists to troubleshoot technical challenges and optimize product ... Work on a diverse portfolio of cosmetic, personal care, and OTC products. * Gain hands-on ...

System One Holdings, LLC

Hair Care Scientist

NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers * Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance System One, and ...

e.l.f. Beauty

Interim, Sr. Manager, R&D

New York, NY · Hybrid

The role will regularly interface with Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance to assure contract ... At least 7 years' experience in cosmetics products development of formulation and process ...

e.l.f. Beauty

Interim, Sr. Manager, R&D

New York, NY · On-site

The role will regularly interface with Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance to assure contract ... At least 7 years' experience in cosmetics products development of formulation and process ...

Solomon Page

Raw Materials Specialist

Kenilworth, NJ · On-site

$35/hr

... formulation with background in consumer or cosmetic products industry. * Contract Role: Approx. 6 months * Pay: $35/hr on W2 Responsibilities: * Maintain and manage all global raw material ...

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All JobsContract Cosmetic Formulation Jobs

Contract Cosmetic Formulation information

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$14

$22

$42

How much do contract cosmetic formulation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract cosmetic formulation in the United States is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are contract cosmetic formulation services?

Contract cosmetic formulation services involve hiring specialized professionals or companies to develop and create custom cosmetic products for your brand. These services include formulation development, testing, and sometimes manufacturing, allowing brands to bring new products to market without needing in-house formulation expertise. Contract formulators work with clients to ensure products meet regulatory standards, desired performance, and branding goals. This approach helps companies save time and resources while accessing expert knowledge in cosmetic science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Cosmetic Formulation Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Cosmetic Formulation Specialist, you need a solid background in chemistry or cosmetic science, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with product development. Familiarity with formulation software, regulatory compliance tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with clients and ensuring innovative, safe products. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing successful formulations that meet both client expectations and industry standards.

What is the difference between Contract Cosmetic Formulation vs Contract Cosmetic Chemist?

AspectContract Cosmetic FormulationContract Cosmetic Chemist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry or cosmetic scienceSame as formulation role, often with additional certifications in cosmetic chemistry
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with brands and manufacturers, often in labs or officesWorks in labs, developing and testing cosmetic products
Industry UsageUsed by companies outsourcing product developmentEmployed by contract labs or as independent consultants

Contract Cosmetic Formulation involves creating and developing cosmetic product formulas, often working with brands or manufacturers. Contract Cosmetic Chemists focus on the scientific testing, stability, and safety of these formulations. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, formulation roles emphasize product development, whereas chemists focus on testing and analysis.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in contract cosmetic formulation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in contract cosmetic formulation often face challenges such as meeting tight client deadlines, ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulatory standards, and accommodating a wide range of client needs from small startups to established brands. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong project management skills, up-to-date knowledge of global cosmetic regulations, and effective communication with both clients and internal teams. Building flexibility into workflow processes and maintaining a robust network of raw material suppliers also help ensure timely and compliant product development.
More about Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs? Cities with the most Contract Cosmetic Formulation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cosmetic Formulation jobs? The most popular types of Cosmetic Formulation jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs are:
Contract Cosmetic Formulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Cosmetic Formulation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,488 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Looking for Chemist at Clark, NJ

Buckeye Global IT Inc

Clark, NJ • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Details:
Title: Chemist

Location: Clark, NJ (Onsite)
Duration: 6-Month Contract (Potential for Extension)

Position Overview:

We are seeking a detail-oriented Chemist with laboratory experience to support the physicochemical characterization, testing, and evaluation of cosmetic and personal care products. The ideal candidate will have experience in laboratory analysis, product stability testing, formulation support, and data management within a research or quality environment.

Candidates with experience in cosmetics, personal care, consumer products, food, paint, or related industries are strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Perform physicochemical characterization and performance testing of cosmetic and hair care formulations using established laboratory methods.
  • Conduct stability testing and evaluate product attributes including viscosity, appearance, and performance.
  • Support experimental design and testing activities to assess formulation stability and product quality.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records, test results, and stability documentation.
  • Ensure complete traceability of samples, testing activities, and analytical data.
  • Assist in implementing and optimizing characterization methods and laboratory workflows.
  • Coordinate sample tracking and transfer between formulation and testing laboratories.
  • Analyze data, prepare reports, and communicate findings to project teams.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physical Sciences, Cosmetic Science, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of laboratory, research, quality control, or product testing experience.
  • Experience with stability testing, formulation characterization, or analytical testing preferred.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Experience:

  • Cosmetics, personal care, consumer products, food, paint, or related industries.
  • Experience with laboratory instruments such as:
    • pH Meter
    • Microscopy
    • Rheometer/Viscometer
    • Foam Analyzer
  • Familiarity with formulation or batching equipment is a plus.
  • Experience supporting continuous improvement, process optimization, or method development initiatives.

Key Competencies:

  • Laboratory Testing  
  • Stability Studies
  • Product Characterization
  • Data Analysis
  • Documentation
  • Quality Control
  • Cosmetics Testing
  • Research & Development
  • Problem Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Process Improvement
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration