R&D Chemist; Innovation

Our client, a leading South African skincare and personal care manufacturer, is seeking an innovative and technically strong R&D Chemist to join their growing Research and Development team.

Reporting directly to the Chief Innovation Officer, this newly created role will play a key part in driving product innovation, formulation development, and research initiatives across a diverse skincare portfolio.

• Design, develop and refine innovative skincare formulations.
• Research and evaluate new raw materials, active ingredients and delivery systems.
• Conduct laboratory batching, formulation optimisation and scale up activities.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to successfully transition products from development to production.
• Conduct performance, efficacy, stability and compatibility testing.
• Ensure formulations meet quality, safety and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate formulation records, technical documentation and test results.
• Work closely with regulatory teams to ensure compliance across target markets.
• Prepare sell sheets, USP summaries and trial evaluation reports.
• Provide technical support to Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing and Brand teams.
• Monitor global cosmetic science trends, ingredient innovations and regulatory developments.

• BSc in Chemistry or a related scientific field.
• Cosmetic Science qualification will be advantageous.
• 2 to 5 years' formulation experience within the skincare or cosmetics industry.
• Proven experience formulating and troubleshooting skincare products.
• Experience with product scale up and manufacturing processes.
• Strong project management and organisational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation practices.
• Computer literate.

• Hands on formulation experience across skincare systems and cosmetic products.
• Understanding of cosmetic ingredients, actives and formulation technologies.
• Knowledge of regulatory and quality requirements within the cosmetic industry.
• Experience managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines.