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Cosmetic Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline * 4+ years of hands-on formulation experience in hair care R&D * Strong ...

System One

Hair Care Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

Bachelor's or Master's in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline * 4+ years of hands-on formulation experience in hair care R&D * Strong ...

TeamSoft

Quality Control Analytical Color Matcher

Wharton, NJ · On-site

$25 - $33.50/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Cosmetic Science, or a related scientific field preferred. * 2+ years of Quality Control laboratory experience within cosmetics, personal care ...

C9 Staff

Junior Formulator

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Candidates should have a degree or background in chemistry, cosmetic science, or a related field, or relevant hands-on experience in formulation or manufacturing. Familiarity with GMP environments is ...

C9 Staff

Junior Formulator

Saint Petersburg, FL

Candidates should have a degree or background in chemistry, cosmetic science, or a related field, or relevant hands-on experience in formulation or manufacturing. Familiarity with GMP environments is ...

Vizor

Junior Content Creator

New York, NY · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Passion for personal care, cosmetics, and beauty science * Ability to simplify and explain complex ideas clearly * Portfolio or links to previous content (not necessarily in beauty - any style or ...

Vizor

Junior Content Creator

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Passion for personal care, cosmetics, and beauty science * Ability to simplify and explain complex ideas clearly * Portfolio or links to previous content (not necessarily in beauty - any style or ...

Clariant

Formulation Chemist

New Providence, NJ · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. * 3-7 years of hands-on experience in a cosmetic or personal care formulation ...

PRIMALLY PURE LLC

Formulator Scientist

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field; advanced degree preferred. * 3-5 years of hands-on experience formulating skincare or personal care products, significant ...

Clariant

Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. * 3-7 years of hands-on experience in a cosmetic or personal care formulation ...

Vizor

Junior Content Creator

New York, NY · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Passion for personal care, cosmetics, and beauty science * Ability to simplify and explain complex ideas clearly * Portfolio or links to previous content (not necessarily in beauty any style or genre ...

PRIMALLY PURE LLC

Formulator Scientist

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field; advanced degree preferred. * 3-5 years of hands-on experience formulating skincare or personal care products, significant ...

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Cosmetic Science information

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How much do cosmetic science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetic science in the United States is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $28.85 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.
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What cities are hiring for Cosmetic Science jobs? Cities with the most Cosmetic Science 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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Cosmetic Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cosmetic Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cosmetic Science jobs are:
Cosmetic Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmetic Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,132 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Hair Care Scientist

Hair Care Scientist

System One

Cranbury, NJ • On-site

$70/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Hair Care Scientist Location: Cranbury, New Jersey Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $70-80k Contractor Work Model: Onsite – onsite Hours: 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM M-F

Responsibilities

  • Develop, optimize, and validate innovative hair care formulations
  • Design new chassis formulations and develop in various packaging formats
  • Conduct detailed research on ingredient performance, hair fiber interactions, and novel technologies to enhance product efficacy and sensorial appeal
  • Design and analyze experiments to evaluate product stability
  • Partner with cross-functional teams (Product Development, Regulatory, Quality, Manufacturing) to translate consumer insights into scientifically sound product solutions
  • Prepare technical documentation including formulation guidelines, raw material specifications, and batch manufacturing records
  • Ensure formulations meet regulatory and safety requirements
  • Provide technical guidance in troubleshooting formulation challenges and scaling laboratory batches to pilot and production levels
  • Contribute to building organizational knowledge in hair science and formulation
  • Keep current on industry trends, technological advances, and raw materials to proactively identify opportunities for innovation

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline
  • 4+ years of hands-on formulation experience in hair care R&D
  • Strong knowledge of colloid and surface chemistry, emulsion science, rheology, and polymer interactions in hair formulations
  • Proven track record of developing and launching successful commercial hair care products
  • Experience with stability and compatibility testing, and understanding of claims substantiation, and consumer evaluation methodologies
  • Familiarity with formulation scale-up processes and working closely with contract manufacturers
  • Fundamental understanding of global cosmetics regulations and raw material compliance

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.

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Ref: #558-Scientific

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