1

Cosmetics Formulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Formulation Scientist

Columbus, IN ยท On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Summary We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Microbiologist / Formulation ... Experience in regulated environments such as pharmaceutical, biotech, personal care, cosmetics ...

Formulation Chemist Mativ is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta ... This role formulates products in the medical device, OTC, and occasionally cosmetic spaces ...

Sr. Research Scientist

Johnson City, TN ยท On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

Lead formulation development activities for skincare, cosmetic, OTC, personal care, and related products from concept through commercialization. * Serve as a technical expert in emulsion and ...

Sr. Research Scientist

Johnson City, TN ยท On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

Lead formulation development activities for skincare, cosmetic, OTC, personal care, and related products from concept through commercialization. * Serve as a technical expert in emulsion and ...

Showing results 41-60

Cosmetics Formulation information

See salary details

$14

$22

$42

How much do cosmetics formulation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmetics formulation in the United States is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Cosmetics Formulation jobs
What cities are hiring for Cosmetics Formulation jobs? Cities with the most Cosmetics Formulation job openings:
What states have the most Cosmetics Formulation jobs? States with the most job openings for Cosmetics Formulation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cosmetics Formulation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,488 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

3rd shift - MFG - Compounder I

Schwan Cosmetics USA, Inc.

Murfreesboro, TN โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

COMPOUNDER

Schwan Cosmetics USA | Murfreesboro, TN

THE ROLE AT A GLANCE

Step up to craft precision cosmetic formulations on high-tech Symex mixers and advanced compounding equipment. In this role, you will lead complex batch blending, assist with team training, run technical solvent checks, and ensure every product strictly meets client specifications and safety standards.


KEY SKILLS & TECHNOLOGIES

Symex Mixers • Batch Compounding • cGMP Standards • Cosmetic Formulation • Shade Matching • Material Pre-Weighing • SSC System • Inventory Flow • Equipment Sanitation • PPE Safety

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Precision Blending & Symex Mixing (40%)

    • Mix and blend raw materials on Symex mixers and specialized compounding equipment following exact process instruction (PI) sheets to create cosmetic colors.

  • Material Management & Inventory Optimization (20%)

    • Locate and pre-weigh raw materials, controlling storage bin levels and inventory flow to keep production filling lines fully supplied for on-time delivery.

  • Quality Assurance, Shade Matching & Mentorship (15%)

    • Assist with training team members, perform shade matching, and troubleshoot formulation issues. Run SSC system solvent checks and work under the direction of Compounder III to adjust and calculate waxy base formulations.

  • cGMP Sanitation & Kettle Maintenance (10%)

    • Disassemble, clean, sanitize, and reassemble kettles and compounding equipment strictly adhering to cGMP guidelines to ensure top product safety and quality.

  • Continuous Improvement & Safety Engagement (10%)

    • Maintain high housekeeping standards, participate actively in safety programs, join volunteer committees, and drive daily process improvement initiatives.

  • Operational Support (5%)

    • Execute other departmental support duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES

  • Experience: 1–3 years as a Compounder I with demonstrated performance standards, or equivalent experience/education in batch processing using similar reaction vessels.

  • Education: High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent experience). Chemistry knowledge is preferred.

  • Technical & Math Skills:

    • Proficient in intermediate math (converting US/metric, calculating gross/net/tare weights, fractions, and percentages).

    • Mechanical aptitude with basic PC skills.

  • Core Aptitudes: Strong decision-making, attention to detail, self-starter initiative, problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork.

  • Special Requirement: Must pass a color hue test.

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Physical Capabilities: Continuous standing (>70%). Frequent walking, stair climbing, color discrimination, and lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs (40–69%). Occasional pushing/pulling, bending, and lifting over 50 lbs (15–39%).

  • Environment & Safety: Continuous use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators, gloves, and safety shoes (>70%). Frequent exposure to noise, temperature fluctuations, steam, and hazardous chemicals/fumes (40–69%).