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Cosmetic R&D Chemist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MicroVention

Staff Chemist, Manufacturing

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$116K - $145K/yr

Support the manufacturing of chemistry based medical devices products by maintaining current processes and transferring new processes from R&D. The scope of work includes process and test method ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161.56 - $194.65/hr

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a related field is a plus. * Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in research and development, including product and process development in a ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161K - $194K/yr

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a related field is a plus. * Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in research and development, including product and process development in a ...

BioPhase Solutions

R&D Lab Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$21 - $23/hr

We are currently looking for an R &D Lab Technician to work for a Greater Los Angeles area cosmetic company. Pay Rate: $21-23/hour depending on experience Summary: Responsible for R&D lab support ...

GFF

R & D Product Development Specialist

La Puente, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

Designs & creates new products or alters & improves existing products; use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, & other sciences to study the principle underlying the processing & deterioration of ...

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How much do cosmetic r&d chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic r&d chemist in California is $33.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.82 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cosmetic R&D Chemist?

Cosmetic R&D Chemists are professionals who research, develop, and formulate new cosmetics and personal care products, such as lotions, shampoos, and makeup. They combine knowledge of chemistry, biology, and product safety to create innovative and effective formulations that meet regulatory standards and consumer needs. Cosmetic R&D Chemists also test ingredients, analyze product stability, and collaborate with marketing and regulatory teams to bring safe and appealing products to market.

What are some common challenges faced by Cosmetic R&D Chemists when developing new formulations?

Cosmetic R&D Chemists often face challenges such as ensuring product stability, meeting regulatory requirements, and balancing innovative ingredient use with consumer safety and performance expectations. Formulating products that are both effective and appealing, while remaining cost-efficient, can require extensive testing and collaboration with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams. Staying updated on new raw materials and evolving consumer trends also presents an ongoing challenge in this dynamic field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cosmetic R&D Chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cosmetic R&D Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, formulation science, and product development, typically supported by a degree in chemistry or a related field. Experience with laboratory instruments, formulation software, and familiarity with regulatory standards such as FDA or EU Cosmetics Regulation is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills that help drive innovation and collaboration. These skills ensure safe, effective, and marketable cosmetic products that comply with regulations and meet consumer needs.

What are popular job titles related to Cosmetic R&D Chemist jobs in California?

For Cosmetic R&D Chemist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cosmetic R&D Chemist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cosmetic R&D Chemist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cosmetic R&D Chemist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cosmetic R&D Chemist job openings:

Cosmetic R D Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic R&D Chemist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $69,083 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Associate R&D Chemist

American Fruits & Flavors

San Fernando, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

March 5, 2026 Associate R&D ChemistIf you love the ideaof turning curiosity into innovation and transforming raw materials into real-worldsolutions, this role is going to be your new playground. We're looking for anR&D Chemist who's ready to dive into product development, fine-tuneformulas, match competitive products, and help shape the next generation ofsolutions in our industry.General Description of DutiesThe R & D Chemist analyzes, develops, and improves existing and new products using existing and new raw materials and requires little to no supervision doing this work. Matches products supplied by customers and internal personnel from competitors. Calculates costing on all products developed. Directs the evaluation and testing of prototypes. May have some supervisory responsibility directing the work of Assistant and Associate R & D Chemists and technicians. Maintains contacts with Quality Control, Production, inter-company lab personnel, and Sales. Begins having some customer contact as well. This individual must maintain a positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in ways that foster good relationships with those inside and outside the company.Essential Job FunctionsMust demonstrate superior product development creativity.Develop and/or improve new and existing products including juice concentrates and flavors, based on defined customer or in-house requirements.Must taste all products developed.Begin to determine feasibility of certain projects based on company limitations.Perform costing analysis on all work performed.Create master formulas and compounding instructions as needed.Prepare product specification sheets for submission to customers.Begin to contact customers to determine their requirements with regard to product development.Develop products that meet or exceed customer applications.Begin to provide technical assistance to customers and brokers.Perform shelf-life studies and stability testing of products to ensure they meet our claims.Organize and establish guidelines, procedures and policies for handling all outgoing samples.Assist QC and Production in first-time production of all new products.Assume responsibility for all sample request inquiries in the absence of the R & D Manager.Regular, punctual attendance.Other duties and projects as required or assigned.RequirementsB. S. in Food Science or related science discipline.Minimum 4 years of experience as an R&D Chemist.Must demonstrate excellent taste and aroma sense acuity.Proficient in verbal and written English.Some supervisory experience and/or training.Must have visual acuity to evaluate sample appearance and use lab instruments.Must be able to lift and carry up to 15 pounds occasionally.Must report to any company facility according to company need, sometimes with same-day notice.LOCATION San Fernando, CADEPARTMENT R&DJOB TYPE ChemistSALARY RANGE $30 - 35 per hour Compensation Range: Actual salary/hourly wages are determined upon a variety of factors such as level of experience, skills, education and /or certifications, and location.

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