Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years of experience or Master's degree with 1-3 years of experience in cosmetics or personal care R&D. * Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a ...
Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years of experience or Master's degree with 1-3 years of experience in cosmetics or personal care R&D. * Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a ...
Director, Marketing, Polypropylene (PP) Catalyst
Houston, TX · On-site
$168K - $232K/yr
... cosmetics, food packaging, beer, edible oils and more. Our thousands of employees help shape a ... R. Grace is seeking a Director of Marketing (DM) for the Polypropylene (PP) Catalyst Segment to ...
Director, Marketing, Polypropylene (PP) Catalyst
Houston, TX · On-site
$168K - $232K/yr
... cosmetics, food packaging, beer, edible oils and more. Our thousands of employees help shape a ... R. Grace is seeking a Director of Marketing (DM) for the Polypropylene (PP) Catalyst Segment to ...
Senior Research Chemist
Kingwood, TX · On-site
From medical supplies and electronics to food packaging and cosmetics, we create the building ... D. in Chemistry * At least 7 years of experience * Specific expertise in one of the following core ...
Senior Research Chemist
Kingwood, TX · On-site
From medical supplies and electronics to food packaging and cosmetics, we create the building ... D. in Chemistry * At least 7 years of experience * Specific expertise in one of the following core ...
Senior Research Chemist
Kingwood, TX · On-site
From medical supplies and electronics to food packaging and cosmetics, we create the building ... D. in Chemistry * At least 7 years of experience * Specific expertise in one of the following core ...
Senior Research Chemist
Kingwood, TX · On-site
From medical supplies and electronics to food packaging and cosmetics, we create the building ... D. in Chemistry * At least 7 years of experience * Specific expertise in one of the following core ...
Cosmetic R D information
See Texas salary details
$12.32 - $14.58
3% of jobs
$14.58 - $16.84
8% of jobs
$18.44 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.84 - $19.10
19% of jobs
$19.10 - $21.36
7% of jobs
$21.36 - $23.62
12% of jobs
The median wage is $23.68 / hr.
$23.62 - $25.88
18% of jobs
$27.93 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.88 - $28.14
8% of jobs
$28.14 - $30.40
12% of jobs
$30.40 - $32.66
6% of jobs
$32.66 - $34.92
3% of jobs
$34.92 - $37.18
3% of jobs
$12
$24
$37
How much do cosmetic r&d jobs pay per hour?
What are typical daily responsibilities for someone in a Cosmetic R&D role?
A professional in Cosmetic R&D typically spends their days formulating new skincare, haircare, or makeup products, conducting stability and safety tests, and documenting findings. They often collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory, and production teams to ensure that products are both innovative and compliant with relevant regulations. Additional tasks may include analyzing raw materials, optimizing existing formulas, and staying updated on the latest trends and technological advances in cosmetics. The role demands a balance of hands-on laboratory work and cross-functional teamwork to bring high-quality products from concept to market.
What is a Cosmetic R&D job?
A Cosmetic R&D (Research and Development) job involves creating and improving beauty and personal care products through scientific research and formulation. Professionals in this field work with ingredients, test product stability, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance product performance. They collaborate with marketing and manufacturing teams to develop innovative skincare, haircare, makeup, and fragrance products. The role requires knowledge of chemistry, biology, and formulation science to create safe, effective, and market-ready cosmetics.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cosmetic R&D position, and why are they important?
To thrive in Cosmetic R&D, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or a related scientific field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Expertise with laboratory equipment, formulation software, and regulatory compliance systems such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certifications is highly desirable. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills are essential soft skills for this role. These capabilities are critical for innovating safe and effective cosmetic products that meet industry standards and consumer expectations.

Job description
Under limited supervision, independently develops new cosmetic formulas and/or modifies existing formulas from various product categories as assigned. Independently applies cosmetic industry knowledge and standard formulation principles for execution of formula development through scaleup. Demonstrated skill in data interpretation and critical thinking. Under guidance, ability to manage potential formulation instability during development. Performs work as independent contributor with limited direct supervision to meet project deliverables. Supports department goals, communicates project related information to cross-functional partners, and able to summarize technical contributions.
About the Role:
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Technical & Formulation Responsibilities
- Formulate and support development of skincare, body care, personal care products including creams, lotions, cleansers, serums, and related product formats.
- Apply foundational understanding of cosmetic chemistry and functional raw materials (emulsifiers, thickeners, emollients, actives, UV filters, etc.) and how they behave across different formulation systems.
- Conduct laboratory experiments, formulation iterations, stability testing, able to conduct basic product performance testing.
- Support troubleshooting efforts by identifying formulation or process-related issues and proposing potential solutions with guidance from senior scientists.
- Accurately document formulation work, experimental results, and observations in laboratory records and reports.
Product Development Support
- Execute formulation changes and improvements based on project needs, technical feedback, and performance requirements.
- Support scale-up, pilot batches, and technology transfer activities under supervision.
- Collaborate with cross-functional internal and external project partners.
Learning, Mentorship & Growth
- Actively seek and incorporate technical feedback and mentorship from senior scientists and leadership.
- Demonstrate curiosity and initiative in learning new ingredients, technologies, formulation approaches, and industry trends.
- Build problem-solving skills by participating in formulation troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
- Continuously develop technical expertise with the goal of increased independence and ownership over time.
Professional & Team Contribution
- Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
- Manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively within assigned projects.
- Communicate clearly and professionally within the formulation team and with cross-functional partners.
- Other duties as assigned.
Skills & Experience:
Required Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years of experience or Master's degree with 1-3 years of experience in cosmetics or personal care R&D.
- Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Hands-on experience formulating cosmetic or personal care products in a laboratory setting.
Technical & Professional Skills:
- Foundational understanding of cosmetic raw materials and formulation principles.
- Basic knowledge of processing parameters and how formulation variables impact product performance.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot formulation challenges with guidance.
- Familiarity with FDA regulations and cGMP principles is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation skills.
- Willingness to learn, accept mentorship, and grow technical capability.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.