Senior Cosmetic Science Consultant

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 126,000 - 168,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is engaged on behalf of a boutique consultancy specializing in cosmetic formulation, regulatory compliance, and product innovation in the beauty industry. They seek a Senior Cosmetic Science Consultant to guide clients from concept to commercialization with scientific integrity and safety, in a hybrid role with occasional travel to Kimberley, ZA.

The candidate will possess an advanced degree (MSc/PhD), 8+ years in cosmetic R&D, and strong skills in communication and project

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry or related field.
• 8+ years hands-on cosmetic R&D, formulation, and product development.
• Deep knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, functions, safety and regulatory status.
• Experience with various cosmetic formulation types and manufacturing processes.
• Strong knowledge of international cosmetic regulations and compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-relationship skills.
• Ability to work independently in a hybrid role with some travel to Kimberley, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert consultation on cosmetic product formulation, including efficacy, stability, and sensory attributes.
• Advise clients on ingredient selection, sourcing, and potential interactions.
• Develop and optimize cosmetic formulations for skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics.
• Conduct feasibility studies and market analysis for new product concepts.
• Ensure product formulations comply with international regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EU Cosmetics Regulation).
• Assist clients with product testing, safety assessments, and claim substantiation.
• Stay abreast of the latest cosmetic science trends, technologies, and raw material innovations.
• Collaborate with clients' R&D, marketing, and regulatory teams to achieve project goals.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for clients.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Communication

Presentation

Client relationship management

Project management

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a boutique consultancy firm specializing in cosmetic formulation, regulatory compliance, and product innovation within the beauty industry. They are seeking a highly experienced Senior Cosmetic Science Consultant to join their team, working a hybrid schedule primarily based remotely, with occasional travel to Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA. You will be instrumental in advising clients on product development from concept to commercialization, ensuring scientific integrity, safety, and market viability. This role requires a deep understanding of cosmetic chemistry, formulation techniques, ingredient science, and global regulatory landscapes. If you are a seasoned cosmetic scientist passionate about innovation and strategic client guidance, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert consultation on cosmetic product formulation, including efficacy, stability, and sensory attributes.
• Advise clients on ingredient selection, sourcing, and potential interactions.
• Develop and optimize cosmetic formulations for skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics.
• Conduct feasibility studies and market analysis for new product concepts.
• Ensure product formulations comply with international regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EU Cosmetics Regulation).
• Assist clients with product testing, safety assessments, and claim substantiation.
• Stay abreast of the latest cosmetic science trends, technologies, and raw material innovations.
• Collaborate with clients' R&D, marketing, and regulatory teams to achieve project goals.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for clients.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands‑on experience in cosmetic R&D, formulation, and product development.
• In-depth knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, their functions, safety, and regulatory status.
• Proven experience with various cosmetic formulation types and manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of international cosmetic regulations and compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superb communication, presentation, and client‑relationship management abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple client projects effectively in a hybrid capacity, with occasional requirements for travel to Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA.
• Previous consulting experience is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive contract rate commensurate with expertise and experience.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse portfolio of clients and innovative projects.
• Flexible hybrid work model with significant remote autonomy.
• Contribution towards professional development and attendance at industry conferences.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge trends and technologies in the cosmetics industry.
• Potential for long‑term, repeat business and project engagements.