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Formulation Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kinetic Personnel Group

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Formulation Associate

Tustin, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Formulation Associate Job Summary The Formulation Associate will support the preparation ... Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical ...

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How much do formulation science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 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 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.

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.

How much do formulation scientists make in the US?

Formulation scientists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

What do formulation science professionals do?

Formulation science professionals develop and optimize the composition of products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food items to ensure stability, efficacy, and safety. They use scientific principles, laboratory techniques, and tools like chromatography and spectroscopy to create effective formulations and often collaborate with research and development teams. Strong knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and regulatory standards is essential in this role.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,866 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Scientist II - Formulation and Composites

Cambium Biomaterials, Inc.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$120K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, formulate, and manufacture advanced polymer and composite materials, including coatings, adhesives, and foams.

  • Conduct experiments, analyze data, and document findings related to new material formulations and process optimization.

  • Collaborate with team members to support technology transfer and develop new high-performance materials for industry applications.

Job description

Scientist II - Formulation and Composites
El SEGUNDO, CA | FULL-TIME Onsite
Due to the nature of the work, only US Persons may be considered
Defense, aerospace and other high-performance applications demand new material solutions stronger, lighter, more resilient tested and delivered faster than traditionally available. Cambium is disrupting advanced materials development, from AI-driven molecular design to agile domestic manufacturing. Whether enabling hypersonic flight or protecting critical systems, our solutions push the limits of what's possible. Cambium solves mission-critical problems in defense and industry. Our team of world-class scientists and engineers was purposely built to take on those challenges. Come join us and revolutionize advanced materials for defense, aerospace, and beyond.
THE ROLE
Cambium is seeking a Scientist II to join our polymer/composite materials engineering team. In this role, you will design, formulate, and manufacture advanced material products spanning coatings to composites. This role focuses on high-temperature thermosets, maturing products from the benchtop to commercialization.
This is a hands-on position where you will work closely with scientists/engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams to develop new materials, assist with technology transfer, and contribute to process optimization efforts.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Material development in support of novel products/product forms (e.g. film adhesives, composites, coatings, foams) to serve a fast-paced high-performance industry.
• This is a hands-on role and you will be expected to spend considerable time in the laboratory.
• Work collaboratively with synthetic chemists and engineers to plan experiments, including DoEs, to evaluate new additives and develop new formulations.
• Analyze data and document conclusions in reports and presentations.
• Provide regular progress reports to senior scientists and technical leadership.
• Clearly communicate development status, performance outcomes, and lessons learned to your coworkers, management/leadership, and collaborators.
• Prioritize safety and OSHA, EPA, and local health and safety requirements.
KEY REQUIREMENTS
• B.S. + 7 years of industrial experience or M.S. + 3 years industrial experience in a relevant technology field (i.e., Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, etc.) or equivalent relevant industrial experience
• Industrial experience in the development of advanced materials and polymers for use in high-performance applications
• Working knowledge of manufacturing and/or formulating polymer composites and/or adhesives
• Willingness to learn and contribute in a hands-on laboratory environment
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Due to the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship is required
SALARY: $120,000 - $138,000 annually
BENEFITS: Cambium offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits plan. This includes excellent medical/dental/vision benefits, and a matching 401(k) plan, professional development reimbursement, and an opportunity for equity for most full-time positions.
As a condition of employment, the candidate may need to successfully complete a medical evaluation and obtain clearance to wear respiratory personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134.

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