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Formulation Science Jobs (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 ...

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How much do formulation science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for formulation science 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.

How much do formulators make?

Formulation scientists typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $90,000, depending on experience, education, and industry sector. Entry-level roles may start around $50,000, while experienced formulators or those in specialized fields can earn over $100,000. Skills in chemistry, knowledge of manufacturing processes, and relevant certifications can influence salary levels.

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 highest paid pharmaceutical scientist?

The highest paid pharmaceutical scientists are often senior-level professionals such as Directors or Vice Presidents of formulation or research and development, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and company size, and advanced degrees and specialized skills can lead to higher earnings.

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 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 is the salary of formulation R&D?

The salary for formulation R&D professionals typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced scientists with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

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 use laboratory techniques, analytical tools, and scientific principles to create effective formulations and often collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet regulatory standards.
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Formulation Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Formulation Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,488 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Agricultural Principal Formulation Chemist - Davis, CA Area

Agricultural Principal Formulation Chemist - Davis, CA Area

Wilbur-Ellis Holdings, Inc.

Woodland, CA

$115K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Wilbur-Ellis rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 92 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Investing in You, join a 100-year-old, family-owned leader in Ag - and grow with us!

Wilbur-Ellis invests heavily in our employees by offering skill development and training, competitive compensation and benefits, and a tradition of promoting from within for a broad range of career opportunities. And we foster a supportive, people-first work environment.

"We know the confidence gap can get in the way of meeting spectacular candidates, so please don't hesitate to apply - we'd love to hear from you."

Role Overview:

The Principal Formulation Chemist will lead research and discovery activities across Wilbur-Ellis' full portfolio of branded plant nutrition products, active ingredients, and adjuvants. This role is responsible for developing new technologies, exploring novel formulation strategies, and advancing early-stage concepts into robust prototypes.

Working in a dedicated R&D environment, the chemist will drive innovation through experimental design, mechanistic studies, stability and compatibility analysis, and hands-on formulation science. This position partners closely with product management, sales enablement, marketing, regulatory, EHSS, and operations to translate scientific insights into differentiated, commercially viable solutions.

This is a unique scientific role for someone who thrives on discovery, creativity, and pushing technical boundaries in plant science and agricultural chemistry.

A Sample of WhatYou'llDo in this Role:

Research & Discovery

  • Lead exploratory research for plant nutritionals, actives, and adjuvants, identifying novel formulation approaches and emerging technologies.

  • Conduct mechanistic and physicochemical studies to understand ingredient functionality and interactions.

  • Perform compatibility, stability, and functionality testing to support early-stage concept development.

Formulation & Product Development

  • Design and optimize advanced formulations for branded plant nutrition products, EPA registered active ingredients, and adjuvants.

  • Develop lab-scale prototypes and conduct iterative testing to refine performance, shelf life, and field utility.

  • Evaluate new raw materials, delivery systems, surfactants, carriers, and stabilizing technologies.

  • Generate high-quality analytical data and interpret results into actionable recommendations.

  • Support competitive benchmarking by evaluating third-party technologies and industry trends.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work with marketing, field sales, portfolio management, regulatory, and EHSS to advance concepts toward commercialization.

  • Provide scientific insight during early feasibility, labeling considerations, and regulatory strategy discussions.

  • Develop technical training materials for internal teams and support field education when needed.

Laboratory Management

  • Assist daily lab operations, ensuring accurate data collection, equipment readiness, and safe working practices.

  • Assist and lead sample management, including sample preparation and shipping and receiving of research samples.

  • Foster a culture of scientific rigor, curiosity, and hands-on experimentation within the innovation lab.

What You Bring to the Role:

  • A bachelors degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or a closely related field.

  • 2+ years expertise in agricultural chemistry, ideally spanning fertilizer and plant nutrition, biologicals, active ingredients, and adjuvant technologies.

  • Experience with biotechnology, plant metabolites, biochemical modes of action, and signaling compounds.

  • Strong understanding of physical chemistry, colloidal systems, surfactants, solvents, emulsions, chelation, and controlled-delivery systems.

  • Proven ability to design experiments and troubleshoot issues related to stability, compatibility, and performance.

  • Familiarity with active ingredient behavior, adjuvant interactions, and nutrient uptake mechanisms.

  • Experience in R&D or applied research environments; pilot-scale formulation experience a plus.

What Makes You a Great Fit:

  • You are scientifically curious, inventive, and passionate about discovery.

  • You're an analytical thinker with strong attention to detail and experimental discipline.

  • You communicate effectively and collaborate well across technical and non-technical teams.

  • You're a self-starter who can lead projects independently and manage multiple priorities.

  • You are committed to maintaining the highest standards of laboratory safety and scientific integrity.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • In compliance with all states and cities requiring transparency of pay, the base compensation for this position ranges from $115,400- $161,620. Note that salary may vary based on location, skills, and experience.

  • This position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus and vacation, holidays, health, dental, vision, mental health, and retirement plan participation, including an employer contribution of up to 7% into your 401(k). Follow this link for more informationregardingWilbur-Ellis employee benefits:https://mywebenefits.com/

Please note that salary ranges provided for this role on external job boards are salary estimates made by outside parties and may not be accurate.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

Diversity of people, cultures, opinions, and ideas makes us all stronger. From leadership commitment to employee buy-in, we know that creating an inclusive environment and providing opportunities for all employees to reach their full potential is a shared responsibility.

Wilbur-Ellis is a company you can be proud to call your employer

Wilbur-Ellis markets and distributes agricultural products, animal feed specialty chemicals, and food ingredients. A privately held and consistently profitable company, we employ more than 4,000 people throughout North America and Asia-Pacific.

Wilbur-Ellis is for and about people

Wilbur-Ellis has enjoyed over 100 years of success and growth, all thanks to our people. Our employees are both leaders and team players who thrive on creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a dedication to quality work, our customers, and each other.

Wilbur-Ellis invests in the industry's best workforce

Wilbur-Ellis invests heavily in our employees by offering skill development and training, competitive compensation and benefits, and a tradition of promoting from within for a broad range of career opportunities. And we foster a supportive, people-first work environment.

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