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Cosmetic Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

Chemist II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$70K/yr

Experience in the area of Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Chemistry preferred. * Analytical laboratory experience is required. * cGMP experience is required. * Experience with Quality Control testing is ...

Chemist II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$70K/yr

Experience in the area of Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Chemistry preferred. * Analytical laboratory experience is required. * cGMP experience is required. * Experience with Quality Control testing is ...

Fragrance Chemist

Virginia, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

These chemists conduct research to develop scents for various items including household products and cosmetics. Often times, fragrance chemists work in a lab, creating and testing fragrances, and ...

Chemist I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$31/hr

Experience in Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Chemistry preferred. * cGMP experience preferred. * Experience with Quality Control testing is preferred. * Experience with analytical techniques is required.

Wet Chemist

Akron, OH

$70K - $95K/hr

The Wet Chemist supports Research and Development by formulating, testing, and optimizing ... This role is responsible for developing nutraceutical, dietary supplement, cosmetic, and personal ...

Chemist I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$31/hr

Experience in Pharmaceutical/Cosmetic Chemistry preferred. * cGMP experience preferred. * Experience with Quality Control testing is preferred. * Experience with analytical techniques is required.

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Cosmetic Chemist information

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How much do cosmetic chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic chemist in the United States is $33.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cosmetic chemist?

A cosmetic chemist researches or develops cosmetics, including skincare, toothpaste, dyes, soaps, and makeup products. Their responsibilities may include researching materials, developing and testing new compounds, and writing technical reports. Their goal is to understand and improve the chemical makeup of products.

What are some common challenges faced by cosmetic chemists during product development?

Cosmetic chemists often encounter challenges balancing innovative formulations with regulatory compliance and product safety. They must ensure that new ingredients achieve desired effects while being stable, safe, and compatible with packaging. Additionally, cosmetic chemists collaborate closely with marketing, quality assurance, and regulatory teams to address consumer expectations and ensure timely project completion. Navigating these multidisciplinary demands while keeping up with fast-paced trends makes the role both dynamic and rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cosmetic chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cosmetic Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or chemical engineering, typically with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, formulation software, and regulatory systems like FDA or EU cosmetics regulations is essential. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong problem-solving and teamwork skills help set top candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for developing safe, innovative, and effective cosmetic products that meet industry standards and consumer needs.

Do cosmetic chemists make a lot of money?

Cosmetic chemists typically earn a median salary that varies by experience and location, with entry-level positions starting around $50,000 annually and experienced professionals earning over $80,000. Salaries can increase with advanced skills, certifications, and working for larger companies or in specialized areas of formulation and product development.

Is a cosmetic chemist a good career?

A cosmetic chemist is a professional who develops and formulates skincare, haircare, and cosmetic products, often working in laboratories with knowledge of chemistry and formulation techniques. The career offers opportunities for creativity, scientific contribution, and industry growth, with roles typically requiring a degree in chemistry or a related field and familiarity with regulatory standards. Job stability and advancement depend on experience, skills, and industry demand.

Is a cosmetic chemist in high demand?

Cosmetic chemists are in steady demand due to the growing beauty and personal care industry, which values expertise in formulation, ingredient safety, and product development. Opportunities are available in both large companies and startups, often requiring knowledge of regulatory standards and laboratory skills.

What cities are hiring for Cosmetic Chemist jobs?

Cities with the most Cosmetic Chemist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cosmetic Chemist jobs?

The most popular types of Cosmetic Chemist jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Cosmetic Chemist jobs?

The top employers for Cosmetic Chemist jobs are:

What states have the most Cosmetic Chemist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cosmetic Chemist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cosmetic Chemist jobs?

For Cosmetic Chemist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cosmetic Chemist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,999 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Senior Formulation Chemist Cosmetics

Bayport Laboratories

Houston, TX • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
POSITION PURPOSE

The Senior Formulation Chemist at Bayport Laboratories develops and optimizes innovative cosmetic products, focusing on color cosmetics, skin care, and hair care. This role formulates new products from concept, refines existing formulations, performs testing and analysis, and provides technical guidance and mentorship to laboratory technicians. The Senior Chemist works closely with and reports to the R&D Lab Manager to ensure project milestones, quality standards, and compliance with cGMP and the company’s Quality System are met.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Formulate and reformulate cosmetic products, including color cosmetics, skincare, and hair care, from concept to production-ready formulas.
  • Optimize existing formulations for performance, stability, texture, and color payoff.
  • Conduct stability, compatibility, and performance testing in accordance with established protocols.
  • Lead color matching, shade development, and innovative product concepts using advanced formulation technologies.
  • Operate, maintain, and perform calibration checks on laboratory instruments.
  • Mentor and provide day-to-day technical guidance to laboratory technicians, ensuring proper procedures and high-quality results.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory, and QA/QC, to support product documentation, ingredient selection, and formula proposals.
  • Maintain accurate records of active R&D projects, formulation trials, and laboratory results.
  • Support customer programs by tracking progress, reviewing specifications, and ensuring project milestones are met.
  • Assist the R&D Lab Manager in scaling laboratory formulations to pilot or production batches, troubleshooting issues, and validating processes.
  • Uphold strict adherence to cGMP and ISO 22716 standards, maintaining accurate laboratory documentation and ensuring compliance.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized laboratory environment in line with company and regulatory guidelines.
  • Contribute to a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence within the lab team.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education / Certification: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or Cosmetic Science. Additional certifications in cosmetic formulation or regulatory compliance are a plus.
  • Required Knowledge: Expertise in cosmetic formulation principles, particularly for color cosmetics (lipsticks, foundations, powders, eyeshadows). Familiarity with formulation of skincare and hair care products (creams, serums, shampoos, conditioners). Strong understanding of raw materials, pigments, emollients, surfactants, preservatives, and active ingredients. Knowledge of regulatory standards and safety requirements, including cGMP, FDA regulations, ISO 22716 (2007), and global cosmetic guidelines. Understanding of stability, compatibility, and performance testing for cosmetic products.
  • Experience: Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience formulating color cosmetics from concept to launch. Proven experience in developing new formulas from scratch, including selecting ingredients, defining texture, color payoff, and performance characteristics. Experience in troubleshooting and optimizing existing formulations to improve stability, performance, or cost efficiency. Track record of collaboration with cross-functional teams (marketing, packaging, QA/QC, regulatory) to deliver innovative products.
  • Skills & Abilities: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify formulation issues and implement solutions efficiently. Ability to lead and mentor formulation teams, guiding less experienced chemists through complex projects. Excellent project management skills with the ability to handle multiple product development timelines simultaneously. Strong communication skills, able to present technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Creativity and innovation mindset to develop cutting-edge products that meet market trends and consumer expectations.
Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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