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Formulation Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Formulation Scientist

Columbus, IN · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Pay Rate Low: 27 | Pay Rate High: 30 Our client is a leader in contract manufacturing and integrated product development, formulation science, technical operations, packaging expertise, and in-house ...

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 ...

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How much do formulation development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for formulation development 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 are some common challenges faced in a Formulation Development role, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Formulation Development often encounter challenges such as ensuring product stability, achieving desired drug release profiles, and scaling up formulations from the laboratory to manufacturing. These challenges are typically addressed by conducting thorough pre-formulation studies, collaborating closely with analytical and process engineers, and performing iterative testing to optimize formulations. Teamwork and effective communication with quality assurance and regulatory teams are also crucial to ensure products meet both efficacy and compliance standards.

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

To excel in Formulation Development, a solid background in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or related fields, often with a relevant degree, is essential. Experience with analytical instruments, formulation software, and knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or regulatory guidelines are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective cross-functional communication set top performers apart. These skills ensure the creation of safe, effective, and compliant products that meet both scientific and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Formulation Development vs Formulation Scientist?

AspectFormulation DevelopmentFormulation Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Pharmacy, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Pharmacy, Chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, R&D departmentsResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, R&D departments
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing drug formulations for productionDeveloping and testing drug formulations, conducting experiments

Formulation Development focuses on designing and optimizing drug formulations for manufacturing, while Formulation Scientists conduct experiments and testing to develop these formulations. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their specific responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What is formulation development?

Formulation development is the process of designing and optimizing the composition of a pharmaceutical product, such as a tablet, capsule, or injectable, to ensure its safety, efficacy, and stability. This involves selecting appropriate active ingredients, excipients, and delivery methods to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Professionals in formulation development work to address challenges like solubility, bioavailability, and manufacturability, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their work is essential for turning a drug candidate into a viable, market-ready product.
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What states have the most Formulation Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Formulation Development jobs include:
Senior Scientist, Biologics Formulation

Senior Scientist, Biologics Formulation

Varda Space Industries

El Segundo, CA

$140K - $180K/yr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

About this Role

Our pharmaceutical team is looking for a highly motivated Senior Scientist to lead protein formulation development programs within our Biologics Formulation team. This role offers the opportunity to pioneer innovative formulation strategies for high concentration biologics and advanced systems while building capabilities in a dynamic startup environment.

As a Senior Scientist, you will lead the design and execution of complex formulation development programs, applying deep expertise in protein chemistry and physical biochemistry to solve challenging formulation problems. You will drive strategic decisions in formulation design, mentor junior scientists, and establish best practices for formulation development in a fast-paced startup setting.

ResponsibilitiesStrategic Formulation Development
  • Lead formulation development programs for high concentration protein therapeutics across dosage forms
  • Design and execute formulation strategies based on first-principles understanding of protein chemistry, including solution behavior, protein-protein interactions, and colloidal stability
  • Develop advanced formulation platforms
  • Apply thermodynamic and kinetic principles to predict and optimize formulation behavior
  • Identify and mitigate formulation-related risks including aggregation, precipitation, viscosity, chemical degradation 
  • Identify Critical Quality Attributes
Technical Leadership & Innovation
  • Serve as technical lead on multiple concurrent formulation projects from early-stage through late-stage development
  • Design experimental strategies and interpret complex datasets to drive formulation decisions
  • Establish formulation development workflows, analytical strategies, and acceptance criteria 
  • Evaluate and implement novel formulation technologies and approaches
  • Interface with cross-functional teams including analytical development, engineering, and external partners
Team Development & Data Excellence
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior scientists
  • Establish robust data management practices and quality standards
  • Maintain exemplary ELN documentation and ensure data integrity across the team
  • Author technical reports, regulatory submissions, and scientific publications
  • Deliver high-quality results within aggressive startup timelines while maintaining scientific rigor
Basic Qualifications
  • PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomaterials, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related discipline
  • 3+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience in early-stage or late-stage protein formulation development
    Proven track record of leading formulation development projects from concept through execution
  • Deep expertise in protein chemistry, physical biochemistry, and formulation science
  • Extensive hands-on experience with analytical techniques for protein characterization (e.g., DLS, DSF, SEC, CE, rheology, spectroscopy)
  • Experience developing high-concentration protein formulations and mitigating concentration-limiting factors
  • Strong foundation in thermodynamics, solution chemistry, and colloidal science as applied to protein systems
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently in fast-paced environments with shifting priorities 
  • Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to data management and ELN practices Strong scientific writing and presentation skills
Preferred Skills And Experience
  • Experience with protein crystallization, for drug delivery
  • Knowledge of advanced formulation systems
  • Experience with lyophilization, spray drying, or other solid-state processing unit operations
  • Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis approaches
  • Experience with high-throughput formulation screening and automation
  • Track record of scientific publications or patent applications 
  • Experience in startup or resource-constrained R&D environments
  • Background in monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, or other complex biologics
What We Offer
  • Opportunity to pioneer formulation development for space-based biomanufacturing
  • Technical leadership role with significant scientific autonomy
  • Collaborative environment working alongside world-class scientists and engineers
  • Opportunity to shape the scientific direction of a growing company
Pay Range
  • Salary Range: $140,000.00 - $180,000.00/per year
  • This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA
  • Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
  • You will be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards