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Cosmetic Formulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prevail Recruiting

Formulation Scientist

Murrieta, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate combines strong cosmetic chemistry expertise with a genuine passion for clean, natural, and high-performance skincare formulation. Key Responsibilities * Lead the research ...

New

Primally Pure

Cosmetic Formulator Scientist

Murrieta, CA

$100K - $130K/yr

This is a hands-on formulation role with ownership across the full product development lifecycle ... The ideal candidate combines strong cosmetic chemistry expertise with a genuine passion for clean ...

SV Labs Corporation

Formulation Chemist

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree with a Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. WORK EXPERIENCE * Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on formulation experience in the personal care, home ...

Caliscc

New Product Development Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Project Chemistry is a leading cosmetic formulation and innovation lab based in Irvine, California. We partner with emerging and established beauty brands to create breakthrough skin and hair care ...

SV Labs Corporation

Formulation Chemist

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree with a Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. WORK EXPERIENCE * Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on formulation experience in the personal care, home ...

Kelly Services

Cosmetic Chemist

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Maintain proper documentation in lab notebooks, including formulation data, procedures, specifications, and stability information. * Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as pH meters ...

Actalent

Senior Formulator

Castaic, CA · On-site

$40 - $62/hr

... of formulation or product development experience within nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, food, cosmetics, or related industries Experience developing products from concept through ...

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Cosmetic Formulation information

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How much do cosmetic formulation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic formulation in California is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cosmetic formulation?

A Cosmetic Formulation job involves creating and developing skincare, haircare, makeup, and other beauty products by selecting and combining ingredients for efficacy, safety, and stability. Cosmetic formulators work in labs, conducting research, testing formulations, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. They collaborate with chemists, regulatory teams, and marketing professionals to develop products that meet consumer needs and market trends. This role requires knowledge of chemistry, product development, and raw materials to create innovative and high-quality cosmetics.

What skills and qualifications are needed for cosmetic formulation?

To thrive as a Cosmetic Formulation professional, you need a strong background in chemistry or chemical engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in product development. Familiarity with formulation software, regulatory compliance systems, and laboratory equipment such as mixers and viscometers is essential. Attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial for designing safe, innovative, and compliant cosmetic products that meet both client expectations and regulatory standards.

What are common challenges faced by cosmetic formulation professionals?

Cosmetic Formulation professionals often face challenges such as meeting strict regulatory requirements, ensuring product stability and safety, and balancing innovative formula development with cost-effectiveness. Collaboration is also key, as formulators frequently work with marketing, regulatory, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams to bring new products to market. Staying updated with the latest raw materials, industry trends, and sustainability demands can be demanding but rewarding. Overcoming these challenges requires continuous learning, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to evolving industry standards.

How do you become a cosmetic formulation specialist?

To become a cosmetic formulation specialist, typically a bachelor's degree in chemistry, pharmacy, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in cosmetic labs and developing skills in formulation, stability testing, and ingredient safety are essential steps. Certifications in cosmetic science or formulation can also enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California?

For Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cosmetic Formulation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cosmetic Formulation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cosmetic Formulation job openings:

Cosmetic Formulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Formulation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,866 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.
See more jobs at Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.external

$130K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Summary:
Lead the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products for a Cosmetics manufacturing company. Oversee a team of chemists, and collaborate closely with Marketing from initial concept to launch to ensure feasibility, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Pay range: $130,000 - $139,000

* The posted range is only one component of Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. benefits package.

Responsibilities:

· Lead, mentor, and develop a team of color and skincare chemists and lab technicians

· Oversee formulation of new color cosmetics and skincare products

· Evaluate raw materials, trends, and new technologies to drive innovation

· Manage multiple development projects, timelines, and budgets

· Partner with Marketing and Operations to align product development with company goals

· Guide scale-up processes and support Manufacturing during commercialization

· Ensure compliance with FDA, OTC (as applicable), and international cosmetic regulations

· Oversee stability testing, safety testing, and claims substantiation

· Maintain detailed formulas, documentation, and project records

· Manage lab operations, equipment, and inventory

· Enforce lab safety protocols and best practices

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field

· 7+ years of cosmetic formulation experience (color and skincare required)

· Prior leadership or team management experience

· Strong knowledge of Cosmetic ingredients, raw materials, and regulations

· Excellent project management and communication skills

· Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

Preferred:

· Strong background in color cosmetics formulation

· Experience in mid-sized cosmetics manufacturing

· Experience with clean beauty or natural formulation a plus

Company Description

Beauty is more than skin deep at Merle Norman Cosmetics. We develop, manufacture and distribute our own full line of innovative skin care, makeup and color cosmetics right here in Los Angeles. It’s our mission to help people everywhere look and feel their very best. We achieve this by creating strong bonds between our employees, franchisees and customers. Together, we represent a brand of opportunity and personal expression. When you join Merle Norman, you join a family. Become part of something beautiful today.