Product Development Chemist

Responsibilities

• Develop new formulations for haircare and skincare products (e.g., shampoos, conditioners, relaxers, stylers, serums, creams, lotions, treatments).
• Modify and optimize existing formulas to improve performance, stability, cost, or claims.
• Conduct ingredient research and stay updated on emerging trends, raw material technologies, and competitive products.
• Evaluate and approve new raw materials for use in development projects.

• Conduct bench-scale experiments, stability testing, and performance testing.
• Analyze physical and chemical properties (pH, viscosity, rheology, conductivity, density, etc.).
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and provide technical solutions.
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, batch sheets, and data summaries.

• Work with process engineers and production teams to transition new products from lab scale to pilot and full manufacturing scale.
• Write and revise manufacturing instructions and specifications.
• Support plant trials, monitor product quality during scale-up, and resolve formulation-related issues.

• Ensure all formulas meet global regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EU, Health Canada).
• Prepare or support documentation for product safety assessments, MSDS, INCI listings, and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure formulas comply with internal quality standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and corporate safety guidelines.

• Partner with Marketing to translate product concepts into feasible formulas.
• Provide technical expertise for claims development and substantiation.
• Support Quality Assurance in evaluating non-conformances and implementing corrective actions.
• Participate in project kickoff meetings, timelines, and milestone reviews.

• Education — Bachelor’s degree (required) or Master’s degree (preferred) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related field.
• Experience — 2–5+ years of experience in cosmetic formulation, preferably in haircare or skincare.
• Experience working with surfactants, polymers, emulsions, conditioning agents, and active ingredients.
• Knowledge of cosmetic raw materials and supplier technologies.
• Strong understanding of formulation chemistry, stability testing, and product development processes.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with lab equipment and common analytical instruments.