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Entry Level Formulation Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Kelly Services

Associate Chemist

Richmond, VA

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Research & Development Laboratory Technician / Entry Level Chemist- Richmond VA Position Summary We ... Support formulation development activities, sample preparation, and product evaluations as needed.

All JobsFormulation Scientist JobsEntry Level Formulation Scientist JobsEntry Level Formulation Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Formulation Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$37

$71

How much do entry level formulation scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level formulation scientist in Virginia is $37.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $43.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Formulation Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Formulation Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or pharmaceutical sciences, typically with a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical techniques (such as HPLC or GC), and industry-standard software is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate formulation development, efficient teamwork, and compliance with industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level formulation scientists, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level formulation scientists often encounter challenges such as understanding complex product requirements, learning to operate specialized laboratory equipment, and adjusting formulations to achieve desired product stability and performance. Collaborating closely with senior scientists and cross-functional teams, such as analytical and quality assurance groups, helps address these challenges. Seeking mentorship, participating in training sessions, and proactively asking questions can accelerate learning and integration into the team, leading to greater confidence and effectiveness in the role.

What does an Entry Level Formulation Scientist do?

An Entry Level Formulation Scientist is responsible for developing and testing new formulations of products, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or chemicals. They work under the guidance of senior scientists to mix ingredients, analyze product stability, and ensure that formulations meet safety and quality standards. Their tasks often include conducting laboratory experiments, documenting results, and troubleshooting formulation issues. This role is ideal for recent graduates with a background in chemistry, biochemistry, or related sciences who are interested in product development.

What is the difference between Entry Level Formulation Scientist vs Entry Level Quality Control Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Formulation ScientistEntry Level Quality Control Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Chemistry, Pharmacy, or related field; internship experience helpfulBachelor's in Chemistry, Biology, or related field; internship experience helpful
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on developing and testing formulationsLaboratories and manufacturing sites performing product testing and analysis
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industriesPharmaceutical, biotech, and manufacturing industries

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related science field and involve laboratory work. The formulation scientist focuses on developing new product formulations, while the quality control analyst emphasizes testing and ensuring product quality. Both positions are essential in product development and manufacturing within similar industries, often overlapping in skills and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Formulation Scientist jobs in Virginia are:
Entry Level Formulation Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Formulation Scientist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,565 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Associate Chemist

Associate Chemist

Kelly Services

Richmond, VA

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Research & Development Laboratory Technician / Entry Level Chemist- Richmond VA
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented Research & Development Laboratory Technician / Chemist to support product development, stability testing, analytical evaluations, and laboratory operations. This role will assist in the testing and evaluation of formulations, maintain laboratory equipment and raw material inventories, and ensure compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of laboratory procedures, analytical testing methods, and quality standards within a regulated manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform product stability testing, including evaluation of appearance, color, odor, pH, viscosity, density, and other physical properties.
  • Conduct analytical testing and laboratory analyses to support formulation development and product evaluation.
  • Monitor test results and communicate findings to the formulation and development teams; identify and escalate issues requiring corrective action.
  • Maintain accurate inventories of development materials, approved raw materials, laboratory reagents, and consumables.
  • Document laboratory activities, test results, observations, and procedures in laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
  • Maintain laboratory records, equipment logs, calibration records, and raw material files in accordance with cGMP requirements.
  • Standardize, calibrate, verify, and maintain laboratory and analytical equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
  • Perform routine equipment inspections and notify management of maintenance, repair, or corrective action requirements.
  • Support formulation development activities, sample preparation, and product evaluations as needed.
  • Follow all laboratory safety procedures, company policies, and housekeeping requirements to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Participate in laboratory training programs and maintain required technical competencies.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency, compliance, and data integrity.
Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, or a related scientific discipline preferred.
Skills
  • Understanding laboratory analytical techniques and testing procedures.
  • Knowledge of formulation development and stability testing principles.
  • Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation calibration and maintenance practices.
  • Working knowledge of chemical principles, formulations, and laboratory safety requirements.
  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to accurately document laboratory activities and maintain detailed records.
Regulatory Knowledge
  • Familiarity with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and laboratory compliance requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or electronic laboratory documentation systems.
  • Knowledge of stability programs, product specifications, and analytical method development.
  • Experience with topical OTC products and aerosol formulations is a plus.

 
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