Development Chemist

ZipRecruiter; Redditch; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS Group is seeking a Development Chemist/Senior Development Chemist to lead product development in the Health & Beauty sector. Applicants should possess a relevant degree and experience in formulation chemistry, focusing on innovation and regulatory compliance while collaborating across teams to deliver market-ready products.

Benefits

Access to tailored training and seminars

Supportive and fast-moving team environment

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of hands-on experience in cosmetics or health & beauty NPD.
• Strong working knowledge of EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No. 1223/2009).
• Track record of delivering successful NPD projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage and deliver formulation projects from concept to shelf.
• Ensure compliance with EU Cosmetic Regulations.
• Provide guidance to junior chemists.

Skills

Formulation Chemistry

Knowledge of Raw Materials

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving

Education

Degree in Chemistry or Cosmetic Science

Job description

Job Description

At DCS Group, we're proud to be a UK leader in the Health & Beauty sector working with the world’s biggest brands while developing our own growing portfolio of products. As part of our ambitious growth strategy, we’re looking for a Development Chemist / Senior Development Chemist to play a key role in bringing exciting, high-performing products to market.

This is a hands-on, commercially aware R&D role perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to see their ideas on shelves across the UK and beyond.

Your Key Responsibilities at DCS Group

• End-to-End Product Development: Manage and deliver formulation projects from concept to shelf, collaborating closely with Commercial, Technical, and Production teams.
• Regulatory & Technical Compliance: Ensure all products meet internal and external standards, staying on top of evolving EU Cosmetic Regulations and best practices.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal departments (Sales, Packaging, Supply Chain, and Blending) to ensure seamless project execution.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Source new ingredients, update formulations, and seek cost-effective or performance-enhancing improvements.
• Mentorship & Team Support: Provide guidance to junior chemists and contribute to a positive, knowledge-sharing environment across R&D.

What You’ll Bring to the Team

• A degree (or higher) in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of hands-on experience in cosmetics or health & beauty NPD.
• Knowledge of formulation chemistry, raw materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong working knowledge of EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No. 1223/2009).
• A track record of delivering successful NPD projects in a commercial setting.
• Great communication skills, attention to detail, and a methodical, solutions-focused approach.
• Bonus: experience with borderline cosmetics, a personal portfolio of developed products, or fragrance/formulation training.

Why Join DCS Group?

• Work with market-leading brands and products reaching millions of customers.
• Be part of a business that combines global brand partnerships with own-brand innovation.
• Join a supportive, fast-moving, and commercially driven team that values collaboration and creativity.
• Access tailored training, from fragrance development to regulatory updates and cosmetic science seminars.
• Play a key role in shaping the future of the Health & Beauty category in the UK and export markets.

About DCS Group

We are the UK's leading approved distributor of health, beauty, and household brands, with a rapidly growing manufacturing and brand development division. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer relationships, we deliver value and quality across every stage of the product lifecycle.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to take your product development expertise to the next level and contribute to our mission of making brilliant products more accessible, apply today and be part of the DCS story.