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Cosmetic Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

NY · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or Cosmetic Science * Additional certifications in cosmetic formulation or regulatory compliance are a plus Required Knowledge: * Expertise in ...

Associate Scientist

Princeton, NJ · Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences * Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting. * Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i ...

$120 - $180/hr

This role requires extensive experience in cosmetic science, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for innovation. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of creating effective and ...

New

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

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

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

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

Showing results 21-40

Cosmetic Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do cosmetic scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for cosmetic scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cosmetic scientist do?

A Cosmetic Scientist researches, formulates, and tests beauty and personal care products, such as skincare, haircare, and makeup. They apply chemistry, biology, and pharmacology to develop safe and effective formulations that meet industry regulations. Their work includes selecting ingredients, improving product stability, and ensuring consumer safety. Cosmetic Scientists often collaborate with marketing and regulatory teams to bring innovative products to market.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a cosmetic scientist?

As a Cosmetic Scientist, your daily responsibilities often include developing and testing new formulas, evaluating product stability and safety, and documenting formulation processes. You’ll also spend time conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and working closely with cross-functional teams such as marketing, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance. Keeping up to date with industry trends and staying compliant with regulatory standards is also part of the job. This collaborative and detail-oriented environment offers opportunities to innovate and contribute to the launch of new beauty and personal care products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cosmetic scientist?

To thrive as a Cosmetic Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or a related scientific field, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in cosmetic science or a similar discipline. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, formulation software, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and relevant safety certifications is highly valuable. Attention to detail, creativity, effective teamwork, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe, effective product development, regulatory compliance, and productive collaboration with marketing, regulatory, and R&D teams.

Are cosmetic scientists in demand?

Cosmetic scientists are in demand due to the growing beauty and personal care industry, which emphasizes product innovation and safety. They often work in laboratories, developing new formulations, and require knowledge of chemistry, skincare ingredients, and regulatory standards. Employment prospects are generally strong, especially for those with advanced degrees and experience in product development or quality control.

How do you become a cosmetic scientist?

To become a cosmetic scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in cosmetic or pharmaceutical companies, along with developing skills in formulation, testing, and regulatory compliance, is essential for advancing in this career.

How much money do cosmetic scientists make?

Cosmetic scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced professionals earning over $100,000. Salaries can vary based on education, experience, location, and the complexity of formulations they develop in laboratory settings.

What cities are hiring for Cosmetic Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Cosmetic Scientist job openings:

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

The most popular types of Cosmetic Scientist jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Cosmetic Scientist jobs?

The top employers for Cosmetic Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Cosmetic Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cosmetic Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Cosmetic Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cosmetic Scientist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Cosmetic Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Associate Scientist

System One

Princeton, NJ • Remote

$25 - $30/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Associate Scientist Location: Princeton, NJ Hours / Schedule: Monday - Friday, 37.5 - 40 hours weekly, Generally 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Pay: $25-30 per hour Type: Contract with potential to extend to a maximum of 1 year Responsibilities
  • Making and testing products in the lab with minimal supervision.
  • Conduct data analysis following Test Methods (Potential method development with lead scientist)
  • Perform pre-determined Design of Experiments (DOE)
  • Perform testing and analysis according to procedure and make lab prototypes - assemble prototypes and measure properties

Requirements

  • BS / MS in Chemistry, Formulation Science, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or related science
    • Industry experience gained from internships, or co-ops will be considered a plus.
  • Minimum 2 - 4 years is desired preferably in personal care or cosmetic sciences
  • Experience working in a scientific laboratory setting.
  • Must be comfortable using various forms of instrumentation i.e. benchtop / analytical instrumentation like lab mixer, pH meter, viscometer, texture analyzer, etc.
  • Heavily, onsite, lab-based role and must be comfortable working on the bench
  • Proficient in MS Office
  • Capable of working remotely if needed (performing data analysis, competitive product counting)

Benefits

System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé, ALTA IT Services, 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. #M3 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