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Cosmetic Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Cosmetic Science information

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$13

$25

$45

How much do cosmetic science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic science in Virginia is $25.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Cosmetic Science?

A typical day in Cosmetic Science involves researching and developing new formulations, testing product prototypes in the lab, and analyzing ingredients to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. You may collaborate with marketing teams, regulatory specialists, and manufacturing departments to bring new products from concept to shelf. Daily tasks often include maintaining detailed records, troubleshooting formulation challenges, and keeping up with emerging trends and technologies. Working in this role offers a dynamic blend of hands-on experimental work and cross-functional teamwork, making it ideal for those who enjoy both science and innovation.

Is cosmetic science a good career?

Cosmetic science is a viable career for individuals interested in developing skincare, haircare, and beauty products, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, formulation, and product testing. Professionals in this field typically work in laboratories or manufacturing environments and may need a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields. The industry offers opportunities for innovation, specialization, and growth, with roles often involving research, development, and quality control.

What does a cosmetic scientist do?

A cosmetic scientist develops and formulates skincare, haircare, and beauty products by researching ingredients, testing formulations, and ensuring safety and efficacy. They often work in laboratories, use scientific methods, and may need knowledge of chemistry, microbiology, and regulatory standards.

What are the highest paying jobs in cosmetics?

In cosmetic science, senior roles such as Cosmetic Chemist, Formulation Scientist, and R&D Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures with experience and advanced degrees. Positions involving management, product development, or specialized expertise in skincare or fragrance development typically offer higher compensation. Advanced certifications and skills in regulatory compliance and formulation software can also contribute to higher earning potential.

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

To thrive in Cosmetic Science, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and product formulation, usually supported by a degree in cosmetic science, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and regulatory guidelines such as FDA or EU cosmetics regulations is essential. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective teamwork and communication distinguish top professionals in this field. These competencies ensure effective development of safe, innovative products that meet industry standards and consumer expectations.

What is a Cosmetic Science job?

A Cosmetic Science job involves researching, developing, and testing personal care and beauty products like skincare, haircare, and makeup. Professionals in this field work to ensure product safety, effectiveness, and compliance with regulations. They may specialize in formulation, product evaluation, regulatory affairs, or quality control. Careers in cosmetic science exist in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

What can I do with a cosmetic science degree?

A cosmetic science degree prepares individuals for roles in product development, formulation, and quality control within the cosmetics and personal care industry. Graduates can work as cosmetic chemists, formulation scientists, or research and development specialists, often using laboratory tools and adhering to industry regulations. The degree provides a foundation for careers in manufacturing, testing, and regulatory compliance in cosmetic companies.
What job categories do people searching Cosmetic Science jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cosmetic Science jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cosmetic Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cosmetic Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Science job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,676 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

R&D Director of Integrated Analytical and Stability Sciences

Gsknch

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Welcome to Haleon. We're a purpose-driven, world-class consumer company putting everyday health in the hands of millions. In just three years since our launch, we've grown, evolved and are now entering an exciting new chapter - one filled with bold ambitions and enormous opportunity.
Our trusted portfolio of brands - including Sensodyne, Panadol, Advil, Voltaren, Theraflu, Otrivin, and Centrum - lead in resilient and growing categories. What sets us apart is our unique blend of deep human understanding and trusted science.
Now it's time to fully realise the full potential of our business and our people. We do this through our Win as One strategy. It puts our purpose - to deliver better everyday health with humanity - at the heart of everything we do. It unites us, inspires us, and challenges us to be better every day, driven by our agile, performance-focused culture.

About the role

The R&D Director of Integrated Analytical and Stability Sciences team is responsible for setting strategic direction and ensuring flawless execution of stability studies from protocol initiation to completion of expiry memos, and marketed product stability to ensure the quality, safety, and compliance of Haleon products across full lifecycle. This role is pivotal to elevating technical leadership across integrated stability science, analytical testing, method validation, and regulatory compliance, supporting product development, lifecycle management, and global regulatory submissions. Additionally, Stability and Analytical Sciences leader will be accountable to continuously assess emerging science and upskill capabilities to ensure state of the art and fit for future capability across Haleon OTC and Wellness portfolio.

Role Responsibilities

  • Set scientific direction and build strong talent pipeline with fit for future capabilities, with proven track record across technical skills, talent development, and setting up new capabilities.

  • Develop and drive an industry benchmarking on best practices to shape competitive strategy for the end-to-end stability program to support global OTC and VMS innovation

  • Shape and execute scientific strategy across a 12-36-month horizon

  • Lead the design, execution, and delivery of on-time and fit-for-purpose stability studies in accordance with ICH, global regulatory requirements, and Haleon quality standards.

  • Leverage historical work and databases and statistical modelling to define a compliant stability strategy in alignment with requirements and standards.

  • Ensure stability protocols, reports, and trend analyses support regulatory submissions, variations, and shelf-life justifications.

  • Assess stability risks, investigate out-of-trend (OOT) and out-of-specification (OOS) results, and implement appropriate corrective actions.

  • Provide technical leadership for analytical testing, including method development, validation, verification, and transfer.

  • Ensure analytical methods are scientifically sound, compliant, and fit for purpose across product categories (OTC, oral, topical, etc.).

  • Drive continuous improvement of stability and analytical capabilities, including robustness, efficiency, and data integrity.

  • Ensure full compliance with GxP, ICH, pharmacopoeia, and Haleon internal R&D, Quality and EHS standards.

  • Manage resource utilization planning and financial budget forecasting

  • Support regulatory inspections, audits, and responses related to stability and analytical activities.

  • Partner closely with Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Product Development and Supply Chain

  • Represent the area of technical/scientific expertise on cross department teams or initiatives and serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for stability and analytical topics across the organization

Other Responsibilities

Business Expertise - Should be aware of the competitive and regulatory landscape across all regulatory pathways Haleon business operates ranging from Rx to OTC switch, to OTC, Wellenss, Medical Devices, and Cosmetics. Build and continuously update external network of experts to augment internal capabilities and expertise.

Why you?

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry or related course of study.

  • 10+ years experience in stability and analytical roles within CPG, consumer healthcare or pharmaceutical environments.

  • Strong hands-on knowledge of stability study design, analytical testing, and regulatory expectations.

  • Proven experience leading teams or technical workstreams in a GxP environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

  • PhD preferred for senior or highly technical roles.

Location: This position is based in Richmond, VA with in-office requirements

The salary range for this role is: $207,878 - $285,831 plus a 18% on target bonus.

Benefits

Haleon offers a robust Total Reward package that consists of competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits program.This includes a generous 401(k) plan, tuition reimbursement and time off programs including 6 months paid parental leave.On day one, you are eligible for benefits, including our healthcare programs where the company pays for the majority of your medical coverage for you and your family.We also offer the opportunity to receive a discretionary bonus based on the achievement of key business performance and other incentive/recognition programs as part of the offering.

Benefits

Haleon offers a robust Total Reward package that consists of competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits program. This includes a generous 401(k) plan, tuition reimbursement and time off programs including 6 months paid parental leave. On day one, you are eligible for benefits, including our healthcare programs where the company pays for the majority of your medical coverage for you and your family. We also offer the opportunity to receive a discretionary bonus based on the achievement of key business performance and other incentive/recognition programs as part of the offering.

Job Posting End Date2026-08-23

Equal Opportunities

Haleon are committed to mobilising our purpose in a way that represents the diverse consumers and communities who rely on our brands every day. It guides us in creating an inclusive culture, where different backgrounds and views are valued and respected - all in support of understanding and best serving the needs of our consumers and unleashing the full potential of our people. It's important to us that Haleon is a place where all our employees feel they truly belong.
During the application process, we may ask you to share some personal information, which is entirely voluntary. This information ensures we meet certain regulatory and reporting obligations and supports the development, refinement, and execution of our inclusion and belonging programmes that are open to all Haleon employees.
The personal information you provide will be kept confidential, used only for legitimate business purposes, and will never be used in making any employment decisions, including hiring decisions.

Please note that if you are a US Licensed Healthcare Professional or Healthcare Professional as defined by the laws of the state issuing your license, Haleon may be required to capture and report expenses Haleon incurs, on your behalf, in the event you are afforded an interview for employment. This capture of applicable transfers of value is necessary to ensure Haleon's compliance to all federal and state US Transparency requirements.

Accommodation Requests

If you require a reasonable accommodation or other assistance to apply for a job at Haleon at any stage of the application process, please contact us by sending an email to HR.AmericasSC-CS@haleon.com. Please include the following in your email:
Use subject line: 'Haleon Careers: Job Accommodation Request'
Your Name and contact information
Requisition ID and Job Title you are interested in
Location of Requisition (city/state or province/country)
Description of specific accommodation you are requesting
Please note: Resumes, CVs, or other requests outside of accommodation support submitted to this email box will not be accepted.

Note to candidates

The Haleon recruitment team will contact you using a Haleon email account (@haleon.com). If you are not sure whether the email you received is from Haleon, please get in touch.