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Cosmetic Science Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Skin Care Manager

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

This is an onsite direct-hire opportunity with standard working hours of 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related ...

R&D Skin Care Manager

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

R&D Skin Care Manager

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

R&D Skin Care Manager

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

R&D Skin Care Manager

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 8:30 AM ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical ...

Direct stability programs and interpret data to ensure product robustness, performance, and shelf ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related scientific ...

R&D Manager

Culver City, CA · On-site

$120 - $140/hr

Oversee and direct the batching/creation of formulas (color, hair, body, skin, home, etc.) from ... Strong scientific background with a bachelor's degree in cosmetic science, chemistry, biology, or ...

Direct stability programs and interpret data to ensure product robustness, performance, and shelf ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related scientific ...

Lab Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140 - $170/hr

Direct stability programs and interpret data to ensure product robustness, performance, and shelf ... Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related scientific ...

Showing results 41-60

Cosmetic Science Director information

See salary details

$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

What cities are hiring for Cosmetic Science Director jobs?

Cities with the most Cosmetic Science Director job openings:

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

The most popular types of Cosmetic Science jobs are:

What states have the most Cosmetic Science Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cosmetic Science Director jobs include:

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.

R&D Skin Care Manager

System One

Cranbury, NJ • On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title: R&D Skin Care Manager Location: Cranbury, New Jersey Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $92,000 - $120,000 Contractor Work Model: Onsite – onsite Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM / 9 AM - 5 PM (some flex) M-F Overview A fantastic opportunity to join a fast-growing, innovation-driven beauty and skincare brand with a highly engaged consumer following. This position offers the chance to build and launch standout products in a collaborative, entrepreneurial R&D environment.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of innovative skin care formulations, focusing on clean ingredients, including serums, masks, treatment products, and sensitive skin products
  • Manage bench-level formulation development, mentoring scientists and technicians in new chassis formulations
  • Oversee creation of new product lines and collaborate with Product Development to translate consumer trends into innovative products
  • Coordinate with Contract Manufacturers (CM) for tech transfers, pilot batches, and line trials to ensure formula standards and consistency
  • Work with packaging teams to ensure compatibility and performance aligns with marketing objectives
  • Partner with QA and CM to develop standards and resolve product-related issues
  • Support NPD in adhering to project timelines and new development initiatives
  • Manage and mentor a team of formulation scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation
  • Develop and refine scalable production processes to ensure product quality and efficiency
  • Establish and maintain supplier relationships, evaluating new raw materials and technologies
  • Ensure all development activities comply with FDA and other relevant regulations, and stay updated on regulatory changes affecting personal care products
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline
  • 7-10 years of experience in consumer products and technology innovation, especially in skin care
  • Proven track record of scientific achievement and team leadership
  • Strong business acumen and strategic thinking skills
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities
  • Experience managing scientist resources and cross-functional teams
  • Deep understanding of formulation in skin care, including serums, masks, and sensitive skin products
  • Knowledge of regulatory compliance, raw material evaluation, and process optimization
  • Ability to balance innovation with commercial viability in a competitive market
Key Skills: Skin care formulation leadership (bench-to-scale), clean ingredient strategy, chassis development (serums /masks/ treatments & sensitive-skin), emulsion / rheology/ sensorial optimization, raw material evaluation & supplier/ CMO partnership, tech transfer/ pilot batches /line trials and scale-up troubleshooting, stability & compatibility testing, claims substantiation and consumer evaluation methods, global cosmetics regulatory & compliance mindset, cross-functional collaboration (Packaging/ QA/ Supply Chain/ Marketing/ NPD), project management/ resource planning, and team mentoring/people leadership

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.

System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

#M- #LI-

Ref: #558-Scientific


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About System One

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

System One helps employers get work done more efficiently and economically without compromising quality. Over our 35+ year history, we've helped connect thousands of talented people with innovative companies. The excitement of a perfect fit motivates us every single day.

Industry

Business consulting services and recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US