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Cosmetics Formulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.

Be Seen First

Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $139K/yr

Lead the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products for a Cosmetics manufacturing company. Oversee a team of chemists, and collaborate closely with Marketing ...

SV Labs Corporation

Formulation Chemist

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

EDUCATION • Bachelor's degree with a Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. WORK EXPERIENCE • Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on formulation experience in the ...

SV Labs Corporation

Formulation Chemist

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

EDUCATION • Bachelor's degree with a Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. WORK EXPERIENCE • Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on formulation experience in the ...

Murad

Senior Manager - Product Development

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Technical knowledge of formulation, ingredients, and cosmetic industry standards Preferred Qualifications * Understanding of regulatory guidelines, GMP, claims substantiation, and cosmetic testing ...

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Cosmetics Formulation information

What is the difference between Cosmetics Formulation vs Cosmetic Chemist?

AspectCosmetics FormulationCosmetic Chemist
Required CredentialsDegree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, or related field; knowledge of formulation techniquesDegree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related; often with advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesResearch labs, product development teams, quality control
Industry UsageDeveloping new cosmetic products, improving formulationsDesigning, testing, and optimizing cosmetic formulas

Cosmetics Formulation involves creating and developing cosmetic products, focusing on formulation techniques. Cosmetic Chemists typically have similar educational backgrounds but may also engage in testing and regulatory compliance. Both roles are essential in the cosmetic industry, often overlapping in responsibilities, but formulation emphasizes practical development, while chemists focus on scientific analysis and product stability.

What are some common challenges faced by cosmetics formulation professionals when developing new products?

Cosmetics formulation professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring product safety and stability, meeting regulatory requirements, and achieving the desired sensory properties like texture and fragrance. Balancing innovative ingredients with cost-effectiveness and scalability for mass production can also be complex. Additionally, formulators must collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams to align product performance with consumer expectations and brand standards.

What is cosmetics formulation?

Cosmetics formulation is the science and process of creating and mixing ingredients to develop products such as creams, lotions, shampoos, makeup, and other beauty items. Formulators must carefully select ingredients for safety, effectiveness, and aesthetic qualities, ensuring the final product meets regulatory standards and consumer expectations. This field combines knowledge of chemistry, biology, and product design to produce safe, effective, and appealing cosmetic products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cosmetics Formulation Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cosmetics Formulation Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, cosmetic science, and product development, often supported by a relevant degree such as chemistry, biochemistry, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, formulation software, regulatory systems (like FDA or EU regulations), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving and communication skills are highly valued in this role. These skills ensure the development of safe, effective, and innovative cosmetic products that meet regulatory standards and consumer expectations.
What are popular job titles related to Cosmetics Formulation jobs in California? For Cosmetics Formulation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cosmetics Formulation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cosmetics Formulation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cosmetics Formulation jobs? Cities in California with the most Cosmetics Formulation job openings:
Cosmetics Formulation jobs near you
Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$130K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Summary:
Lead the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products for a Cosmetics manufacturing company. Oversee a team of chemists, and collaborate closely with Marketing from initial concept to launch to ensure feasibility, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Pay range: $130,000 - $139,000

* The posted range is only one component of Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. benefits package.

Responsibilities:

· Lead, mentor, and develop a team of color and skincare chemists and lab technicians

· Oversee formulation of new color cosmetics and skincare products

· Evaluate raw materials, trends, and new technologies to drive innovation

· Manage multiple development projects, timelines, and budgets

· Partner with Marketing and Operations to align product development with company goals

· Guide scale-up processes and support Manufacturing during commercialization

· Ensure compliance with FDA, OTC (as applicable), and international cosmetic regulations

· Oversee stability testing, safety testing, and claims substantiation

· Maintain detailed formulas, documentation, and project records

· Manage lab operations, equipment, and inventory

· Enforce lab safety protocols and best practices

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field

· 7+ years of cosmetic formulation experience (color and skincare required)

· Prior leadership or team management experience

· Strong knowledge of Cosmetic ingredients, raw materials, and regulations

· Excellent project management and communication skills

· Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

Preferred:

· Strong background in color cosmetics formulation

· Experience in mid-sized cosmetics manufacturing

· Experience with clean beauty or natural formulation a plus

Company Description

Beauty is more than skin deep at Merle Norman Cosmetics. We develop, manufacture and distribute our own full line of innovative skin care, makeup and color cosmetics right here in Los Angeles. It’s our mission to help people everywhere look and feel their very best. We achieve this by creating strong bonds between our employees, franchisees and customers. Together, we represent a brand of opportunity and personal expression. When you join Merle Norman, you join a family. Become part of something beautiful today.