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Product Development Cosmetics Jobs in Rhode Island

How YOU Will Make an Impact Lead consumable product development for highvolume injectionmolded ... cosmetic requirements. Proven experience with DFMEA, structured change management (ECOs), and ...

... all cosmetic and Laser procedures in addition to over the counter products /control inventory ... development stages and sensitivity to cultural diversity in each step of the care process.

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Product Development Cosmetics information

See Rhode Island salary details

$14

$24

$41

How much do product development cosmetics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for product development cosmetics in Rhode Island is $24.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $25.67 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.

What are popular job titles related to Product Development Cosmetics jobs in Rhode Island?

For Product Development Cosmetics jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Product Development Cosmetics job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,781 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

R&D Formulation Chemist

Bradford Soap Works Inc

West Warwick, RI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Bradford Labs Inc.

Position Description

Job Title: R&D Formulation Chemist –

Division: Innovation/R&D Reports to: VP of Innovation

Position Summary:

The Formulation Chemist serves as both a hands-on formulator and a strategic advisor within the R&D team. This role is responsible for driving the innovation and development of new personal care products, while leading technical project execution from concept through commercialization and serves as a technical advisor for both internal stakeholders and external partners.

This individual will identify and assess new ingredients and technologies, develop robust formulations, and contribute to process optimization and knowledge transfer to manufacturing. Project leadership, formulation expertise, and cross-functional collaboration are essential. This position sets technical direction of projects and collaborates in building a high-performing, innovation-driven culture.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Formulation and Technical Development:
  • Lead formulation and development projects of new personal care and cleansing products.
  • Conduct formulation troubleshooting, optimization, and scale-up support.
  • Identify new ingredients and technologies aligned with market trends and consumer needs.
  • Evaluate raw materials for performance, compatibility, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative lab environment.
  • Project Management & Collaboration:
  • Responsible for cross-functional technical projects from concept to launch.
  • Collaborate with process engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful formula transfer and scale-up.
  • Coordinate with outside labs and internal stability lab for analytical and clinical testing when necessary.
  • Interface with Commercial Team to provide timely and strategic technical support.
  • Technical Operations and Documentation:
  • Oversee technical investigations and formulation documentation practices.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards.
  • Contribute to the development of new analytical procedures where necessary.
  • Maintain accurate lab records, software databases, and R&D archives.
  • Application Laboratory Guidance:
  • Provide guidance and support to the Applications Lab where needed.
  • Responsible for the scale-up of formulations from Concept Lab to Application Lab.
  • Ensure seamless technical transfer between labs and to full-scale manufacturing.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  1. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related scientific field; advanced degree preferred.
  2. Experience: 5-7 years in formulation and product development in the cosmetics, oleochemical, or personal care industry.
  3. Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of formulation, raw materials, scale-up, and problem-solving techniques.
  4. Communication: Strong written and oral communication skills with the ability to present technical information clearly.
  5. Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
  6. Analytical Skills: Proficiency in wet and instrumental analytical techniques.
  7. Software Proficiency: Competence in Microsoft Office Suite and formulation/ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP, HubSpot, SmartSheets).

Additional Information:

This role requires an individual who thrives in both a hands-on laboratory setting and who can interface with customers and internal constituents. We are looking for someone who is comfortable driving product innovation and process efficiency.