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Cosmetic Science Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M ... Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

Tatcha

Sr. Director, Product Development

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$185K - $200K/yr

Job Summary As the Sr. Director of Product Development at Tatcha you'll lead the development of all ... MS in cosmetic science, chemistry, or a related field a plus * 3+ years of people management ...

Club Kuma

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

You'll work closely with our Director, Quality & Regulatory Affairs to keep our cosmetics, skin ... Bachelor's in Chemistry, Biology, Cosmetic Science, or related field The Regulatory Affairs ...

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Cosmetic Science Director information

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$80.5K

$111.9K

$144K

How much do cosmetic science director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for cosmetic science director in the United States is $111,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cosmetic Science Director vs Cosmetic Chemist?

AspectCosmetic Science DirectorCosmetic Chemist
CredentialsAdvanced degree in chemistry, cosmetic science, or related field; extensive industry experienceBachelor's or Master's in chemistry, cosmetic science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing R&D teams, strategic planning, and product developmentHands-on formulation, testing, and product development in labs
Industry UsageSenior management in cosmetic companies, overseeing multiple projectsOperational role focused on formulation and testing

The Cosmetic Science Director typically holds a senior leadership position, focusing on strategic oversight and management, while the Cosmetic Chemist is more involved in hands-on formulation and testing. Both roles require strong scientific credentials, but the director's role emphasizes leadership and project management within the cosmetic industry.

Are cosmetic science directors in demand?

Cosmetic science directors are in demand due to the growing beauty and personal care industry, which emphasizes innovation and product development. They typically require strong knowledge of formulation, regulatory compliance, and leadership skills, making experienced professionals valuable in both established and emerging markets.

How much money do cosmetic science directors make?

Cosmetic science directors typically earn a median annual salary between $120,000 and $180,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often hold advanced degrees in chemistry or related fields and have extensive industry experience in product development and formulation. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits based on performance and company profitability.
More about Cosmetic Science Director jobs

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

The most popular types of Cosmetic Science jobs are:

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Cosmetic Science Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Science Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,876 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

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

Re-posted 14 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.