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Cosmetics Formulation Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System One

Analytical Chemist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

System One

Analytical Chemist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

The SME will translate hands-on knowledge of cosmetic formulation, manufacturing, and analytical chemistry into actionable scientific interpretation of regulatory data. Responsibilities * Apply ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

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 ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

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 ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

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 ...

System One

Hair Care Formulation Scientist

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$70/hr

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 ...

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Be Seen First

Formulation Scientist

Midlothian, TX · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Cosmetic chemistry * Emulsions, creams, lotions, serums, or similar personal care products * Raw ... formulation expertise with strong analytical and problem-solving skills and can take a skin care ...

Talnt

Wet Chemist

Akron, OH · On-site

$70K - $95K/hr

The ideal candidate has strong wet chemistry, formulation science, analytical testing, and ... Research and evaluate raw materials, active ingredients, excipients, and cosmetic ingredients for ...

FACE FOUNDRIÉ

Cosmetic Chemist

Osceola, WI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Position Summary We're seeking an experienced Cosmetic Chemist to lead formulation development, product testing and quality control as a founding member of our lab team. This role will be central to ...

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Cosmetics Formulation Chemist information

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$35K

$87.7K

$148K

How much do cosmetics formulation chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for cosmetics formulation chemist in the United States is $87,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cosmetics formulation chemist do?

A Cosmetics Formulation Chemist is responsible for developing, testing, and improving cosmetic and personal care products such as lotions, shampoos, makeup, and skincare items. They carefully select and combine ingredients to create safe, effective, and appealing formulas that meet regulatory standards and consumer needs. These professionals often work in laboratories, collaborating with marketing and regulatory teams to ensure products meet quality and safety requirements. Their work involves staying up-to-date with scientific advancements and trends in the cosmetics industry.

What are some common challenges a cosmetics formulation chemist faces when developing new products?

Cosmetics Formulation Chemists often encounter challenges such as balancing product stability with efficacy, meeting regulatory requirements, and sourcing safe, high-quality raw materials. They must also ensure products are compatible with packaging and can withstand shipping or storage conditions. Collaborating closely with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams is essential to ensure that the final formulation meets both consumer expectations and industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cosmetics formulation chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cosmetics Formulation Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry or chemical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency with laboratory instruments, formulation software, and familiarity with regulatory compliance systems such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) are essential. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong problem-solving skills help you innovate and troubleshoot in product development. These competencies ensure safe, effective, and market-ready cosmetic products that meet regulatory standards and consumer expectations.

What is the difference between Cosmetics Formulation Chemist vs Cosmetic Product Development Scientist?

AspectCosmetics Formulation ChemistCosmetic Product Development Scientist
CredentialsDegree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldDegree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, formulation labsResearch labs, product development teams, cross-functional collaboration
Industry UsageFocuses on creating and testing formulationsOversees entire product development process from concept to launch

While both roles involve developing cosmetic products, a Cosmetics Formulation Chemist primarily focuses on creating and testing formulations, whereas a Cosmetic Product Development Scientist oversees the entire product development process, including formulation, testing, and market readiness.

Do cosmetics formulation chemists make good money?

Cosmetics formulation chemists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000 annually, while experienced chemists can earn over $100,000 with specialized skills and certifications. The role often involves working in laboratories with a focus on product development and safety testing.

How to become a cosmetics formulation chemist?

To become a cosmetics formulation chemist, typically a bachelor's degree in chemistry, cosmetic science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in formulation, and understanding regulatory requirements are important steps. Some professionals pursue advanced certifications or specialized training in cosmetic science to enhance their qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Cosmetics Formulation Chemist jobs?

For Cosmetics Formulation Chemist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cosmetics Formulation Chemist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,733 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Analytical Chemist

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

System One
Business Consulting Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about System Oneexternal

$40 - $50/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title: Analytical Chemist Location: Silver Spring, MD Work Model: Onsite Hours: M-F normal business hours Compensation: $40.00 - $50.00/hr Type: 6+ month contract Overview 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 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. Responsibilities

  • Apply chemistry expertise across development, scale-up, manufacturing, product formulation, and analytical specifications to interpret information available 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.
  • 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.
Qualifications Required:
  • 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:
  • 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.
  • Preference is for candidates with 3–5 years of industry experience in areas such as: R&D, Product Safety, Food, Drug, or Cosmetics Manufacturing, Process Development, QA/QC, Regulatory 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. #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

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