Cosmetic Chemist

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking an R&D Chemist for a Contract-to-hire opportunity with the Client
, a leader in product development and innovation.

Pay: $26-28/hour

Location: Carson, CA

Schedule: Day Shift Mon-Fri

The Client is an industry-leading company driving innovation through advanced formulation development. In this role, you will be responsible for creating and optimizing formulations for various applications, ensuring technical accuracy, compliance with regulatory standards, and successful transition from the lab to production.

You will collaborate closely with R&D leadership, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to develop high-quality products that meet client specifications and performance expectations.

• Develop new formulations and modify existing ones in alignment with project goals and customer needs.
• Maintain proper documentation in lab notebooks, including formulation data, procedures, specifications, and stability information.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as pH meters, viscometers, and moisture analyzers.
• Gather and analyze stability data on formulations under evaluation, reporting issues promptly to the R&D Manager.
• Write detailed manufacturing procedures and finished product specifications for production batches.
• Supervise or assist with initial production batches to ensure consistency and scalability.
• Stay current on new raw materials, technologies, and regulatory requirements by attending seminars and engaging with suppliers.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and customers regarding formulation progress and product performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• 1+ years of experience of formulation within Skincare/haircare/OTC required
• Hands‑on experience in formulation chemistry, preferably with surfactant systems, emulsions, and dispersion formulations.
• Strong laboratory skills, including data recording, method development, and analytical testing.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements is relevant to product formulations.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and operate standard laboratory equipment safely.