R&D Manager – Skincare

Client Overview:

Our client is a leading consumer products organization focused on innovation, quality, and performance-driven skincare solutions, and is looking to hire an R&D Manager – Skincare for their Skincare division. The company is dedicated to developing high-quality products that meet evolving consumer needs while maintaining strong standards for formulation excellence, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance.

$90k - $120k

The R&D Manager – Skincare is responsible for leading the development, optimization, and commercialization of innovative skincare formulations across treatment-focused categories. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in skincare formulation science, hands‑on bench development experience, and leadership capabilities within a fast‑paced consumer products environment. This is an on‑site direct-hire opportunity with standard working hours of 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

• Lead the development of innovative skincare formulations focused on ingredient performance, product efficacy, and emerging market trends.
• Conduct hands‑on bench development and guide Technical teams through formulation optimization activities.
• Research and evaluate new ingredient technologies and formulation approaches.
• Support commercialization activities, including pilot batches, manufacturing transfers, and production trials.
• Collaborate with Packaging, Quality, Manufacturing, Sourcing, Operations, and Product Management teams.
• Ensure product stability, compatibility, and regulatory compliance standards are maintained.
• Partner with Project Management teams to achieve development timelines and milestones.
• Lead, mentor, and develop formulation scientists and technical staff.
• Improve formulation and manufacturing processes to enhance scalability, efficiency, and product quality.
• Support sustainability initiatives through formulation practices and ingredient selection.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers, external laboratories, and manufacturing partners.
• Stay current on skincare trends, ingredient technologies, and cosmetic regulations.

• 7-10 years of experience in skincare product development, formulation design, and innovation.
• Strong knowledge of skincare formulation science and ingredient technologies.
• Proven success leading product commercialization, scale‑up activities, and manufacturing transfers.
• Strong understanding of stability assessments, compatibility evaluations, and efficacy/claims substantiation.
• Knowledge of cosmetic regulations, ingredient compliance requirements, and raw material governance.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing technical and cross-functional Product Development teams.
• Excellent project management, organizational, presentation, and stakeholder communication skills.
• Experience developing treatment‑focused skincare solutions, including products for sensitive skin.
• Track record of improving manufacturing processes, operational performance, and production efficiency.
• Familiarity with sustainable product development principles and clean beauty formulation strategies.
• Strong ability to identify emerging consumer trends and translate market insights into innovation opportunities.
• Skilled at aligning scientific advancement and product innovation with business and commercial goals.
• Capable of thriving in a fast‑paced, collaborative, and results‑driven environment.

• Experience partnering closely with Marketing, Regulatory, Quality, and Operations teams to successfully bring new products to market.
• Understanding of consumer testing methodologies and the incorporation of customer insights into product development strategies.
• Advanced problem‑solving skills with the ability to navigate complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline is required.

• Client-provided benefits available, upon eligibility.