ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Formulation Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TekWissen LLC

Formulation Scientist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

As the global leader in serving the field of science, our client generates approximately $40 ... Formulation Scientist Location: Carlsbad, CA 92008 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFormulation Science JobsFormulation Science Jobs in California

Formulation Science information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$41

How much do formulation science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for formulation science in California is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Formulation Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and regulatory compliance (such as GMP or FDA guidelines) is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help you innovate and collaborate efficiently on product development. These qualifications ensure the safe, effective, and regulatory-compliant creation of new products in industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or food science.

How much does a formulation Scientist make?

A formulation scientist's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in pharmaceuticals or cosmetics can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and health insurance.

How much do Pfizer formulation scientists make?

Pfizer formulation scientists typically earn an average salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in pharmaceutical formulation can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation may also include bonuses and benefits related to research and development environments.

What is the difference between Formulation Science vs Pharmaceutical Chemist?

AspectFormulation SciencePharmaceutical Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, pharmaceutical companies
Industry UsageDesigning and developing drug formulations, improving delivery methodsDeveloping and analyzing chemical compounds, quality control

Formulation Science focuses on creating and optimizing drug delivery systems and formulations, while Pharmaceutical Chemists primarily develop and analyze chemical compounds used in medications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments within the pharmaceutical industry, but their core responsibilities differ in focus and application.

What do you need to be a formulation Scientist?

To become a formulation scientist, a bachelor's degree in chemistry, pharmacy, chemical engineering, or a related field is typically required, with many roles preferring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Strong knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and laboratory skills are essential, along with experience using formulation and analytical tools. Good problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.

What is formulation science?

Formulation science is the discipline focused on combining different chemical substances to create products with specific properties and functions, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and household products. Formulation scientists work to ensure that the combination of ingredients is stable, effective, and safe for the intended use. They also optimize the physical, chemical, and sensory characteristics of the final product. This field is critical in industries where product performance and quality are essential to consumer safety and satisfaction.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Formulation Science, and how can they be addressed?

Formulation Science professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring product stability, optimizing ingredient compatibility, and meeting strict regulatory requirements. Successfully addressing these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, close collaboration with analytical chemists, and diligent documentation. Regular testing and iterative reformulation are common, so adaptability and attention to detail are essential. Working in cross-functional teams with R&D, quality assurance, and manufacturing also helps mitigate challenges and ensures successful product development.

What does a formulation Scientist do?

A formulation scientist develops and optimizes the composition of products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or food items to ensure stability, efficacy, and safety. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and use tools like chromatography and spectroscopy, often working in laboratory settings with a focus on quality control and regulatory compliance.
What are popular job titles related to Formulation Science jobs in California? For Formulation Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Formulation Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Formulation Science jobs in California are:
Formulation Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Formulation Science job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,866 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Postdoc, Formulation Science

Postdoc, Formulation Science

SRI International

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

$69K - $8M/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
SRI's Biosciences Division (BSD) develops transformative approaches and platforms for challenging therapeutic problems. We conduct basic and translational research, have the breadth - and depth - to deliver the latest in biomedical research through technology development. Our researchers have a rich legacy of collaboration with government agencies and industry partners that improve health outcomes and well-being around the world. SRI Biosciences projects range from high-impact, early-stage research to drug co-development with pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
BSD's Center for Pharmaceutical Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow /formulation scientist to be a part of the Formulation & Advanced Drug Delivery group. The successful candidate will design and develop pre-clinical stage candidate formulations for the delivery of small molecules/proteins/vaccines/antibodies. Candidate will actively collaborate with analytical and quality control, pharmacokinetics and toxicology, clinical manufacturing and quality assurance, as needed, throughout the various stages of the project.
The Postdoc position will work onsite in our Menlo Park, CA office.
Responsibilities
  • Development, tech-transfer and clinical manufacturing of injectable, oral and topical formulations
  • Generate & analyze data and results and contribute to the recommendations for next steps based on the data.
  • Generate pre-formulation and formulation technical reports, as well as technology transfer reports.
  • Establish the basis of formulation and manufacturing process with relevant attributes and specifications as required to achieve the goal.
  • Provide support for analytical development through the Product development cycle.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing teams to transition formulations from laboratory scale to pilot and full commercial production.
  • Prepare batch records, technical reports, and regulatory documentation in strict compliance with cGMP guidelines
  • Author and review development and production reports and CMC sections of regulatory submissions.
  • Carry out duties in compliance with all state and federal regulations and guidelines including FDA, EPA, OSHA and DEA.
  • Report and present scientific/technical results internally and to external clients
  • Contribute to internal research and intellectual property projects and initiatives.

Qualifications
  • A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering or related fields
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical formulation, product development, or a related R&D environment.
  • In-depth knowledge of formulation and biopharmaceutical development, protein biochemistry and degradation mechanisms, biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes, combination drug products, and/or analytical and comparability testing strategies.
  • Strong understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA regulatory requirements.
  • Candidates should be able to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills are required.
  • A Successful hire will eventually have the opportunity to build own funded research program within the Formulation & Advanced Drug Delivery group.

Desired skill:
  • Hands-on experience in oral dosage manufacturing and processing equipment
  • Experience in developing novel long-acting intramuscular formulation platform

The salary range is: $69,888-$87,36042. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled. SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

Apply