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Skin Care Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NJ · On-site

$97 - $137/hr

Keep current science and instrumentation relevant to clinical research through literature ... with Personal Care/Skin Health products). * Strategic and innovative multi-tasker with proven ...

NJ · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

Principal / Senior Principal Scientist - Spectroscopy Established in 1806 as a small soap and ... Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other ...

$106 - $160/hr

BA/BS Degree (science preferred, but not required) from an accredited institution * 8+ years of CPG industry experience (preferably R&D, Operations or Engineering) within project management * OTC or ...

NJ · On-site

$86 - $121/hr

... as Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet. Colgate-Palmolive is a leading consumer ... Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other ...

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Skin Care Scientist information

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How much do skin care scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for skin care scientist in the United States is $30.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a skin care scientist do?

A Skin Care Scientist researches, develops, and tests products intended for skin health and beauty, such as creams, lotions, and serums. They study skin biology, analyze ingredients, and ensure formulations are safe, effective, and compliant with regulations. Skin Care Scientists often work in laboratories for cosmetic companies, collaborating with chemists, dermatologists, and marketing teams. Their work helps create innovative products that address skin concerns like aging, acne, and sensitivity.

How does a skin care scientist typically collaborate with product development teams during the formulation process?

Skin Care Scientists work closely with product development teams by providing scientific expertise on ingredient selection, safety, and efficacy during the formulation of new skincare products. They are often involved in cross-functional meetings with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing teams to ensure the formulation meets both consumer needs and regulatory standards. Regular communication and testing are essential to troubleshoot formulation challenges and optimize product performance. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final product is safe, effective, and market-ready.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a skin care scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Skin Care Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, or cosmetic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, formulation software, and regulatory compliance systems is essential, along with certifications like the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC) membership. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and clear communication skills help you develop innovative products and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities ensure the creation of safe, effective, and marketable skin care products in a competitive industry.

What is the difference between Skin Care Scientist vs Cosmetic Chemist?

AspectSkin Care ScientistCosmetic Chemist
CredentialsDegree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related field; often requires experience in skincare formulationDegree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related; specialized in cosmetic product formulation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teams, testing facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D departments in cosmetic companies
Industry UsageUsed interchangeably with cosmetic chemist; focuses on skincare product innovationCommonly used term; emphasizes formulation and chemical development of cosmetics

Both roles involve formulation, testing, and developing skincare products, often requiring similar educational backgrounds. The term "Skin Care Scientist" may imply a broader research focus, while "Cosmetic Chemist" emphasizes chemical formulation expertise. Both are vital in the skincare industry and often overlap in job functions and work environments.

Are skin care scientists in demand?

Skin care scientists are in demand due to the growing cosmetics and personal care industries, which require research and development of new products. Employment opportunities are expected to increase as companies seek experts in formulation, safety testing, and product innovation, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and regulatory standards.

Do skin care scientists make good money?

Skin care scientists typically earn a competitive salary, with median annual wages around $70,000 to $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, utilizing skills in chemistry, biology, and product formulation. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees and industry experience.

How to become a skin care scientist?

To become a skin care scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, product formulation, and knowledge of skin biology, with experience gained through internships or research projects.
More about Skin Care Scientist jobs
Infographic showing various Skin Care Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,140 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Clinical Research Specialist - Skin Health/Personal Care

Colgate-Palmolive Company

Piscataway, NJ • Hybrid

$96K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate in-house testing and external clinical/case studies.

  • Monitor the conduct of external clinical/case studies.

  • Work with cross-functional project teams to review concepts/claims trackers and develop clinical programs.


Colgate-Palmolive rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

No Relocation Assistance Offered
Job Number #175269 - Piscataway, New Jersey, United States
Who We Are
Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company operating in over 200 countries specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other brand in the world, making us a household name!
Join Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets, and our planet. Guided by our core values—Caring, Inclusive, and Courageous—we foster a culture that inspires our people to achieve common goals. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for all.
 

We are looking  for a Clinical Research  Specialist for Dermal Clinical Research - Skin Health/ Personal Care based in our Piscataway, New Jersey location. The responsibilities of this position are as follows:

  • Coordinate in-house testing  and external clinical/case studies.

  • Monitor the conduct of external clinical/case studies.

  • Identify and help develop new innovative clinical methods to explore new technical leads, active ingredients and product claims substantiation.

  • Work with cross-functional project teams (Product Development, Implementation & Support, Research & Implementation, Safety, Regulatory, Legal, Marketing) to review concepts/claims trackers and develop robust clinical programs to support Personal Care, Skin Health and Home Care.

  • Identify and help validate new clinical labs to meet increasing Regulatory demands.

  • Keep current science and instrumentation relevant to clinical research through literature, scientific meetings and consultants.

  • Serve as a resource for expertise in clinical design, bio-instrumentation, data interpretation and in the preparation of manuscripts/posters/oral presentations.

  • Assist with study agreements and the processing of invoices (as needed).

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology or a science related field.

  • 4+ years of functional experience or 2+ years experience with a Master’s degree 

  • Subject matter expert with moderate experience in clinical research including study design & execution, clinical methodologies, claim support and bio-instrumentation (preferably with Personal Care/Skin Health products). 

  • Strategic and innovative multi-tasker with proven project management expertise.

  • Willingness  to travel up to 10% of time.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Moderate experience in clinical research, bio-instrumentation and peer-reviewed publications (preferably with Personal Care/Skin Health products).

  • Understanding of statistical methods to design/interpret clinical data.

  • Strong management skills.

  • Exceptional communication, presentation, and writing skills. 


Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range $96,800.00 - $137,000.00 USD
Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles.
Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of 120 hours) and 13 paid holidays (vacation days are prorated based on the employee's hire date within the calendar year). Paid sick leave is adjusted based on role and location in accordance with local laws. Detailed information regarding paid sick leave entitlements will be provided to employees upon hiring and may be subject to adjustments based on changes in legislation or company policies.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
Our journey begins with our people—developing strong talent with diverse backgrounds and perspectives  to best serve our consumers around the world and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring that each individual can be their authentic self, is treated with respect, and is empowered by leadership to contribute meaningfully to our business.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Colgate is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status (United States positions), or any other characteristic protected by law.
Reasonable accommodation during the application process is available for persons with disabilities. Please complete this request form should you require accommodation.
For additional Colgate terms and conditions, please click here.
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About Colgate-Palmolive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colgate-Palmolive is a leading global consumer products company, tightly focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition. Colgate sells its products in over 200 countries and territories around the world under such internationally recognized brand names as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, Tom's of Maine, Sorriso, Speed Stick, Lady Speed Stick, Softsoap, Irish Spring, Protex, Sanex, Elta MD, PCA Skin, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1806

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