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Product Development Cosmetics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Product Development Associate - Lip

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site +1

$26.36 - $29.29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Support the end-to-end development of new lip products, guiding them from initial concept through ... A strong understanding of color cosmetics and proven experience evaluating cosmetic formulas and ...

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Director of Cosmetics-Research and Development

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products for a Cosmetics manufacturing company. Oversee a team of chemists, and collaborate closely with Marketing ...

Director, Product Development

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary As the Director of Product Development at Tatcha you'll lead the development of Tatcha ... MS in cosmetic science, chemistry, or a related field may substitute for two years of experience ...

Director, Product Development

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary As the Director of Product Development at Tatcha you'll lead the development of Tatcha ... MS in cosmetic science, chemistry, or a related field may substitute for two years of experience ...

Product Development Coordinator

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$28.25 - $35.25/hr

Leveraging exceptional product development, regulatory, and supply chain capabilities, we make ... cosmetics. Principle Accountabilities: * Assist in the management of all projects, helping to ...

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Product Development Cosmetics information

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How much do product development cosmetics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development cosmetics in the United States is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is product development in cosmetics?

Product development in cosmetics refers to the process of creating new beauty and personal care products, from concept through to launch. This involves researching market trends, formulating products, testing for safety and efficacy, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with marketing and design teams. Professionals in this field need a blend of scientific, creative, and business skills to bring innovative and effective products to market.

What are product development jobs in cosmetics?

Product development jobs in cosmetics focus on creating new makeup, skincare, and hair care products. Cosmetic chemists develop compounds and formulas for new products. They work with product development managers to test and perfect these formulas and add color and fragrance elements. They also ensure that the products meet health and safety regulations. Development managers oversee quality and safety testing and ensure that the formulas are ready for mass production. Finally, product development coordinators track the process and handle promotional responsibilities, such as distributing samples and planning packaging.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product development professional in cosmetics, and why are they important?

To thrive in Product Development within the cosmetics industry, you need a background in chemistry, cosmetic science, or a related field, along with expertise in formulation and regulatory compliance. Familiarity with industry-specific tools like formulation software, stability testing equipment, and knowledge of global cosmetic regulations is essential. Creativity, strong project management, and effective communication skills help drive innovation and successful cross-functional collaboration. These skills ensure the creation of safe, effective, and marketable cosmetic products in a highly competitive and regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in product development for cosmetics, and how can they be addressed?

A common challenge in cosmetics product development is balancing innovation with regulatory compliance, as new formulations must meet both consumer demands and strict safety standards. Professionals often work closely with cross-functional teams, such as marketing, R&D, and quality assurance, to ensure products are both effective and compliant. Staying current with evolving regulations and consumer trends can help address these challenges. Strong communication and project management skills are essential for navigating tight timelines and coordinating with suppliers and testing labs.

What is the difference between Product Development Cosmetics vs Cosmetic Chemist?

AspectProduct Development CosmeticsCosmetic Chemist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or Chemical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product formulation, testing, and development teamsLaboratories focused on chemical formulation, stability testing, and safety assessments
Industry UsageRoles involved in creating new cosmetic products, overseeing formulation from concept to productionSpecialized in chemical formulation, testing, and ensuring product safety and efficacy

Product Development Cosmetics involves managing the entire process of creating new cosmetic products, including formulation, testing, and bringing products to market. Cosmetic Chemists focus specifically on the chemical formulation and safety testing of these products. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in labs, Product Development Cosmetics has a broader scope encompassing project management and market considerations, whereas Cosmetic Chemists specialize in chemical formulation and safety analysis.

How much do product development cosmetics make?

Product development cosmetics professionals typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in formulation or regulatory compliance can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually.

How to get into product development cosmetics?

To enter product development cosmetics, candidates typically need a background in chemistry, biology, or cosmetic science, along with experience in formulation, testing, and regulatory compliance. Gaining relevant internships or entry-level roles in cosmetic companies and developing skills in product formulation software can improve prospects. Certifications in cosmetic science or related fields can also enhance employability.

Is product development a good career?

Product development in cosmetics involves creating new products, requiring skills in research, formulation, and testing. It offers opportunities for creativity, innovation, and collaboration within the beauty industry, often requiring knowledge of regulations and industry trends. The field can be rewarding for those interested in science and consumer preferences.

What does a product development cosmetics do?

A product development cosmetics professional designs, formulates, and tests new cosmetic products to meet market trends and safety standards. They collaborate with marketing, manufacturing, and regulatory teams, often using tools like formulation software and conducting stability testing to ensure product quality and compliance.

What cities are hiring for Product Development Cosmetics jobs?

Cities with the most Product Development Cosmetics job openings:

What states have the most Product Development Cosmetics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Product Development Cosmetics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Product Development Cosmetics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,854 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Product Development Manager, Cosmetics

Kiss Products, Inc.

Port Washington, NY โ€ข Hybrid

$123K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description Summary:The Product Developer is responsible for developing innovative, commercially viable beauty products from initial concept through launch.
This role manages the full product development lifecycle, including market and trend analysis, product concept development, product positioning, formula and packaging development, cost and margin management, cross-functional coordination, and launch readiness.
The Product Developer is expected to combine consumer insight, product creativity, commercial judgment, and strong project execution to develop products that strengthen the brand and drive sustainable sales growth across retail and e-commerce channels.Job Description:1. Market, Consumer & Trend Analysis
  • Continuously monitor beauty, skincare, cosmetic, ingredient, packaging, and consumer trends.
  • Analyze competitive brands, products, pricing, claims, ingredients, packaging, and channel strategies.
  • Identify emerging product opportunities based on consumer needs, market trends, competitive gaps, and business opportunities.
  • Monitor new product launches and best-selling products across key beauty channels, including mass retail, specialty beauty, Amazon, TikTok Shop, DTC, and international markets.
  • Translate market insights into actionable product concepts and development opportunities.
2. Product Concept & Strategy Development
  • Develop compelling new product concepts aligned with brand positioning, target consumers, and business objectives.
  • Clearly define the product's target consumer, consumer need, key benefit, differentiation, and reason to believe.
  • Establish product positioning, USP, POD/POP, key claims, ingredient stories, and competitive references.
  • Develop product assortment recommendations, including SKU architecture, shades, sizes, formats, and pricing.
  • Ensure each new product has a clear competitive advantage and commercial rationale before development begins.
3. Business Case & Sales Forecast
  • Prepare an initial business assessment for new product concepts, including:Target retail priceEstimated COGSGross marginCompetitive pricingInitial sales forecastEstimated launch volume
  • Partner with Brand, Sales, Finance, and other stakeholders to validate the commercial potential of new products.
  • Update forecasts and financial assumptions as product specifications and launch plans become finalized.
  • Balance product innovation with cost, margin, inventory risk, and overall business potential.
4. Formula & Product Development
  • Manage product development from concept through final formula approval.
  • Partner closely with internal R&D, OEM/ODM manufacturers, and suppliers to develop innovative and differentiated formulas.
  • Prepare clear product briefs outlining desired texture, performance, ingredients, claims, benchmarks, and target costs.
  • Evaluate prototypes and provide structured feedback throughout development.
  • Ensure final products meet agreed performance, quality, cost, regulatory, and consumer expectations.
  • Identify opportunities to leverage proprietary ingredients, formulation technologies, delivery systems, or other product innovations.
5. Packaging & Product Experience
  • Collaborate with Packaging, Design, Brand, and suppliers to develop packaging that supports product positioning and consumer experience.
  • Evaluate packaging functionality, aesthetics, usability, cost, and compatibility with the formula.
  • Provide clear product information and development requirements for artwork, packaging, displays, and other product-related assets.
  • Ensure the final product experience is consistent with the approved concept and brand positioning.
6. Product Claims & Communication
  • Develop clear and compelling product stories that translate technical product benefits into consumer-relevant language.
  • Work with R&D, Regulatory, Brand, and Marketing teams to validate product claims and supporting evidence.
  • Provide key product information for marketing materials, e-commerce content, sales presentations, training materials, and retailer presentations.
  • Ensure product messaging accurately communicates the product's key benefits and differentiation.
7. E-Commerce & Digital Product Readiness
  • Evaluate product concepts from both offline retail and e-commerce perspectives.
  • Consider searchability, social-media appeal, visual demonstration, before/after potential, review generation, and creator/influencer suitability during product development.
  • Identify potential hero products that can drive online discovery and brand awareness.
  • Collaborate with E-commerce and Marketing teams to ensure products are optimized for Amazon, TikTok Shop, DTC, and other digital channels.
  • Consider online pricing, bundles, sets, exclusive configurations, and promotional opportunities when appropriate.
8. Cross-Functional Project Management
  • Serve as the primary product development owner throughout the NPD process.
  • Coordinate closely with R&D, Brand, Marketing/BX, Design, Packaging, Regulatory, Purchasing, Supply Chain, Sales, and E-commerce teams.
  • Establish and manage development timelines, milestones, deliverables, and approvals.
  • Proactively identify development risks, delays, cost issues, or quality concerns and drive timely resolution.
  • Maintain accurate project information and documentation in the company's project management system.
  • Ensure projects progress efficiently from concept approval through production and launch.
9. Launch Readiness
  • Ensure all product-related requirements are completed before commercialization, including:Final formula approvalPackaging specificationsArtwork informationClaims and product informationCost and pricingRegulatory requirementsProduction readinessSales and marketing product information
  • Support Sales, Marketing, E-commerce, and Brand teams with product knowledge and launch preparation.
  • Participate in product training and retailer/customer presentations when required.
10. Post-Launch Performance & Product Lifecycle
  • Review product performance following launch, including sales, consumer reviews, ratings, returns, and channel feedback.
  • Compare actual performance against the original sales forecast and business case.
  • Identify opportunities for product improvement, line extensions, shade/SKU expansion, bundles, reformulation, or discontinuation.
  • Apply post-launch learnings to improve future product development decisions and forecast accuracy.
Qualification(s):Education(s):Bachelor of Arts (B.A): Business Administration/ManagementWork Experience:Experience Range IV: 8 - 13 years of relevant experience or industry exposure in a related fieldSkill(s):CosmeticsLanguage(s):KoreanCertification(s):Not Applicable

The anticipated compensation range is

69,000.00 - 137,000.00 USD Annual

Actual compensation will be determined based on various factors including qualifications, education, experience, and location. The pay range is subject to change at any time dependent on a variety of internal and external factors.

Kiss Nail Products, Inc., KDC GA Corp., Ivy Enterprises, Inc., AST Systems, LLC, Red Beauty, Inc., or Dae Do, Inc. (collectively, the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.