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Cosmetic Product Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

coty

R&D Project manager Apprentice - Luxury Makeup 1 YEAR - STARTING SEPTEMBER 2026 As an R&D project ... Are passionate about cosmetic products and trends. * Are fluent in English and/or French (both are ...

e.l.f. Beauty

Manager, Regulatory

New York, NY · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

... development, and claims substantiation, to artwork/asset approval and product registration. This role is also accountable for cosmetic/OTC product and site registrations for the US and Canada ...

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How much do cosmetic product development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cosmetic product development in the United States is $126,987.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in beauty?

In cosmetic product development, senior roles such as Director of Product Development or Vice President of R&D tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and expertise in formulation, regulatory compliance, and project management.

What does a beauty product developer do?

A beauty product developer designs and formulates cosmetic products such as skincare, makeup, and haircare items. They conduct research, test formulations, and ensure products meet safety and regulatory standards, often using tools like laboratory equipment and software for formulation development. Strong knowledge of ingredients, safety testing, and industry regulations is essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cosmetic Product Development position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cosmetic Product Development, you need a solid background in chemistry, formulation science, or a related life sciences field, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in product formulation. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, regulatory compliance software, and cosmetic industry certifications such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) is highly beneficial. Creativity, strong project management, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help drive innovation and cross-functional collaboration. These abilities are critical for developing safe, effective, and market-ready cosmetic products in a highly regulated and fast-paced industry.

Who are the big 7 of the beauty industry?

The 'Big 7' of the beauty industry typically refers to the seven largest multinational companies dominating cosmetics and personal care markets, including L'Oréal, Estée Lauder, Unilever, Procter & Gamble, Shiseido, Coty, and Johnson & Johnson. These companies often employ cosmetic product development professionals to create innovative products, requiring skills in formulation, regulatory compliance, and market trends.

What is a Cosmetic Product Development job?

A Cosmetic Product Development job involves creating and formulating new beauty and personal care products, such as skincare, makeup, and haircare items. Professionals in this role work on product formulation, ingredient selection, testing, and regulatory compliance to ensure safety and effectiveness. They collaborate with chemists, marketers, and manufacturers to bring new products from concept to market. Attention to trends, scientific advancements, and consumer preferences is crucial for success in this field.

What are the highest paying jobs in cosmetics?

In cosmetic product development, senior roles such as Director of Product Development, Cosmetic Chemist, and R&D Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive industry experience, and expertise in formulation, regulatory compliance, and project management.

What are the typical daily responsibilities in a Cosmetic Product Development role?

Cosmetic Product Development professionals are usually involved in researching and formulating new products, testing prototypes for stability and safety, and collaborating closely with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams. Their day-to-day tasks often include creating and refining formulations, evaluating ingredient compatibility, documenting results, and attending cross-departmental meetings to ensure project alignment. They may also participate in brainstorming sessions to identify trends and consumer needs, as well as reviewing the latest scientific advancements relevant to the field. The role offers a blend of laboratory work and strategic planning, providing opportunities to contribute both scientifically and creatively to bring innovative beauty products to market.

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What cities are hiring for Cosmetic Product Development jobs? Cities with the most Cosmetic Product Development job openings:
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Cosmetic Product Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Product Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,987 per year, or $61.1 per hour.
Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$130K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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.