ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cosmetic Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

System One

Analytical Chemist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

This role provides scientific support to efforts around cosmetic product registration, listing, ingredient safety assessment, adverse event analysis, and the development of tools, guidance, and ...

New

micro1 AI

AI Training Specialist - Physics

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$80 - $150/hr

Delineate between substantive scientific issues and stylistic or cosmetic matters, providing technically precise written feedback. * Articulate and document the reasoning behind any identified flaws ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCosmetic Science JobsCosmetic Science Jobs in Washington

Cosmetic Science information

See Washington salary details

$15

$28

$52

How much do cosmetic science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic science in Washington is $28.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are cosmetic scientists in demand?

Cosmetic scientists are in demand due to the growing beauty and personal care industry, which requires expertise in formulation, ingredient safety, and product development. Employment opportunities are available in manufacturing, research labs, and product companies, often requiring knowledge of industry regulations and proficiency with formulation software.

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.

Do cosmetic scientists make good money?

Cosmetic scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000. The role often requires knowledge of formulation, chemistry, and regulatory standards, which can influence earning potential.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cosmetic science, 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?

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 safety regulations. The degree provides a foundation for careers in manufacturing, regulatory affairs, and innovation in beauty products.

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

The most popular types of Cosmetic Science jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Cosmetic Science jobs in Washington?

For Cosmetic Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cosmetic Science jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Cosmetic Science jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Cosmetic Science jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Cosmetic Science job openings:

Cosmetic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,177 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

SME II (Analytical/Cosmetic Manufacturing Chemist)

Creative Global Consulting

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Details: Role: SME II (Analytical/Cosmetic Manufacturing Chemist) POP: 12+ months Location: Remote (DMV area preferred, but willing to consider other locations for the right candidate) SCOPE: As an US Citizen, our client is seeking an Analytical/Cosmetic Manufacturing Chemist with deep chemistry expertise in pharmaceutical sciences and botanicals as applied to the cosmetic industry. This role provides scientific support to FDA efforts around cosmetic product registration, listing, ingredient safety assessment, adverse event analysis, and the development of tools, guidance, and policies that strengthen cosmetic product safety oversight. The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. REQUIRED SKILLS: Bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline. Advanced degree (MS/PhD) strongly preferred. Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in cosmetics or personal care product manufacturing, with demonstrated depth across analytical method development, formulation chemistry, and GMP environments. Working knowledge of FDA regulatory frameworks governing cosmetics manufacturing, including MoCRA requirements and applicable GMP guidance (e.g., ISO 22716 alignment). Demonstrated ability to interpret analytical chemistry data and manufacturing records to support compliance and risk assessment conclusions. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate technical chemistry and manufacturing concepts for regulatory and policy audiences. PREFERRED SKILLS: Prior experience supporting FDA, CFSAN, or another federal regulatory body in a scientific advisory capacity. Experience with cosmetic facility inspections, GMP audits, or quality systems implementation in a cosmetics manufacturing setting. Familiarity with adverse event databases (e.g., CAERS) and product listing systems. Experience contributing to regulatory guidance, policy documents, or industry best-practice publications. Background in tool or data system development supporting chemical identification or regulatory science workflows. TASKS: Apply chemistry expertise across development, scale-up, manufacturing, product formulation, and analytical specifications to interpret information available to the FDA as it relates to cosmetic product safety data. Provide scientific input on GMP-related considerations affecting compliance and risk posture. Apply analytical and manufacturing chemistry knowledge to support compliance assignments and risk assessment of cosmetic products and ingredients, drawing on facility data, product listings, and adverse event information available to the FDA. Support the development of tools that assess how chemical information submitted through Cosmetic Registration and Listing programs can be used to identify ingredients and finished products with greater precision and consistency. Provide recommendations to address challenges in cosmetic product listings, including incomplete or missing information such as product labels and ingredient details in adverse event reports. Identify opportunities to improve the chemical identifiability of products in regulatory data systems. Provide scientific input toward the development of guidance documents and policies related to Good Manufacturing Practices in the cosmetics industry.

Apply