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Formulation Development Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Senior Formulation Chemist will lead the formulation development of innovative skincare, haircare, body care, color cosmetics, and hybrid beauty products from concept through ...

The Senior Formulation Chemist will lead the development of innovative skincare, haircare, body care, color cosmetics, and hybrid beauty formulations from concept through commercialization. This ...

This role provides laboratory-based formulation support for the development, customization, and ... The Formulation Chemist will support formulation projects by preparing prototypes, conducting ...

This role provides laboratory-based formulation support for the development, customization, and ... The Formulation Chemist will support formulation projects by preparing prototypes, conducting ...

Prepare laboratory batches * Assist with formulation development * Maintain accurate laboratory ... Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Cosmetic Science or related scientific field * 1-3 years of ...

Prepare laboratory batches * Assist with formulation development * Maintain accurate laboratory ... Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Cosmetic Science or related scientific field * 1-3 years of ...

Formulation Chemist - III $46 - $50/hr with medical benefits available at a cost 2 year contract ... This position will be responsible for executing formulation development projects in collaboration ...

Summary The Formulation Chemist is a high-level position within the Synsus, Private Label Partners Development team. The successful candidate will have responsibility for and input into a wide ...

Job Title: Formulations Chemist / R&D Development Chemist This role leads the development and ... You will create new formulation concepts and prototypes to meet customer briefs, support proactive ...

Job Title: Formulations Chemist / R&D Development Chemist This role leads the development and ... You will create new formulation concepts and prototypes to meet customer briefs, support proactive ...

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Strong background in wet chemistry and formulation development * Experience working with aqueous systems and organic salts * Experience developing or optimizing manufacturing and mixing processes

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Formulation Development Chemist information

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$35K

$87.7K

$148K

How much do formulation development chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for formulation development 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 are some common challenges faced by Formulation Development Chemists during new product development?

Formulation Development Chemists often encounter challenges such as ensuring product stability, achieving desired performance characteristics, and addressing compatibility between ingredients. Troubleshooting unexpected interactions or changes in physical properties—like texture or color—can also arise, requiring creative problem-solving and a solid understanding of chemistry principles. Additionally, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as analytical scientists, production staff, and regulatory experts is crucial to ensure formulations meet quality standards and comply with industry regulations.

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

To thrive as a Formulation Development Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field, usually backed by a relevant degree such as a BSc, MSc, or PhD. Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (like HPLC, GC, FTIR), formulation software, and knowledge of regulatory guidelines (e.g., GMP, ICH) is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help chemists innovate and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the development of safe, effective, and compliant products that meet industry and regulatory standards.

What does a Formulation Development Chemist do?

A Formulation Development Chemist is responsible for designing and developing chemical mixtures—called formulations—for products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or household goods. They research and test combinations of ingredients to ensure the final product is safe, effective, and stable. Their work often involves running experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with other scientists and departments to bring new products from concept to market. They also ensure that formulations comply with regulatory standards and quality requirements.

What is the difference between Formulation Development Chemist vs Analytical Chemist?

AspectFormulation Development ChemistAnalytical Chemist
Primary FocusDeveloping and optimizing product formulationsAnalyzing and testing substances for composition and purity
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsLaboratories, quality control labs, research facilities
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field; experience in formulationBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry; expertise in analytical techniques

Formulation Development Chemists focus on creating and improving product formulations, while Analytical Chemists specialize in testing and analyzing substances. Both roles often work in similar environments and require comparable educational backgrounds, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Formulation Development Chemist jobs
Infographic showing various Formulation Development Chemist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 48% Internship, 41% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,733 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Lead R&D Chemist - Energetic Materials

Rhodes Wolfe

Wichita, KS

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Lead R&D Chemist – Energetic Materials 
Location: Galena, KS (Ideal for Those Who Love the Outdoors; Relocation Assistance is Available)
Salary: Base + Profit Sharing + Benefits
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Holidays, PTO
Job Type: Full-Time 
Typical Hours: 9/80 Schedule, Every Other Friday Off
Travel: Occasional Domestic Travel + Rare International Travel
Sponsorship is not available

Lead R&D Chemist Description

Our client, UTEC, a leader in the commercial energetic materials and explosives industry, is looking for a Lead R&D Chemist to drive development efforts and support the company’s continued growth. This role combines hands-on scientific expertise with technical leadership, team development, customer engagement, and strategic support across the business. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in energetic materials, commercial explosives, or similarly reactive systems, along with the ability to guide a small technical team (3-5), translate complex concepts for customers and stakeholders, and identify new application opportunities that advance innovation. This is a highly cross-functional role with exposure across multiple industries and applications, partnering with leading organizations in explosives, mining, defense, and energetic materials. It’s a rare chance to shape technical direction, influence product development, and make a meaningful impact in a highly specialized industry.

Important Note: We are working directly with UTEC Corporation. To be considered for an interview, please apply directly to this job posting.

Lead R&D Chemist Responsibilities

•    Lead research, development, and improvement of commercial formulations and related products involving energetic materials, explosives, and hazardous chemical systems 
•    Oversee a small team of scientists, technicians, and laboratory personnel 
•    Drive formulation development, testing, scale-up activities, and process optimization efforts 
•    Ensure compliance with OSHA, ATF, environmental, and laboratory safety regulations
•    Collaborate with operations and technical personnel to execute customer projects 
•    Serve as a technical resource for customers; communicating findings, troubleshooting challenges, and identifying potential solutions 
•    Contribute to project planning, resource allocation, and laboratory priorities 
•    Drive innovation, and commercialization of new applications through customer engagement and technical partnerships 

Lead R&D Chemist Qualifications

•    Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or physics required
•    7+ years of experience with energetic materials or commercial explosives required
•    Strong background with R&D and product development required
•    Experience with formulation development, testing, scale-up, and process safety required
•    Ability to obtain ATF Employee Possessor status required

Employment Type: FULL_TIME