Chemist (Temporary) - R&D Formulation Support

Dermalogica; Carson (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

Dermalogica is seeking a temporary R&D Chemist to support bench scale formulation, batching, and stability placement at our Carson, CA headquarters. This hands-on role focuses on execution within the lab and collaboration with the R&D team.

Ideal candidates have a BS in a related field and 1–3 years of lab experience in cosmetics, with strong bench skills, documentation, and the ability to work independently on-site five days a week. Competitive hourly pay offered.

Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 1–3 years hands on formulation or lab experience (cosmetics or personal care preferred).
• Strong bench skills including weighing, mixing, heating/cooling, and pH adjustment.
• Familiarity with stability programs and sample tracking.

Responsibilities

• Prepare bench scale batches following established formulas and SOPs.
• Support stability setup including labeling, documentation, and sample placement.
• Accurately record batch data, observations, and deviations.
• Maintain lab organization, raw material handling, and equipment cleanliness.
• Partner with formulation and stability teams to support active projects.

Skills

Bench formulation

Documentation

Independent worker

Lab skills

pH adjustment

Stability tracking

SOPs adherence

Record keeping

Excel/Office

Attention to detail

Education

BS in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Lab equipment handling

Job description

As the world's largest and most respected professional skincare company, our entrepreneurial spirit fosters personal well-being, creativity, integrity, a fast-paced culture, and a hands-on environment that encourages employees to be their best, bringing innovative solutions to reach the skincare professional and consumer. We're about change, innovation, and results. You will find that Dermalogica is a very special place, with tremendous opportunities ahead for us, all building upon a record of achievement.

Do you want to build a stronger, more sustainable future and cultivate your career? Become a part of the Dermalogica Research and Development team. We are looking for a talented Chemist to be based at the Corporate Headquarters in Carson working on-site with the R&D department in a temporary capacity.

Role Overview

Seeking a temporary R&D Chemist to support bench scale formulation, batching, and stability placement for skincare products. This is a hands-on, execution focused role supporting active development programs in the lab.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare bench scale batches following established formulas and SOPs
• Support stability setup including labeling, documentation, and sample placement
• Accurately record batch data, observations, and deviations
• Maintain lab organization, raw material handling, and equipment cleanliness
• Partner with formulation and stability teams to support active projects

Required Skills & Experience

• BS in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 1–3 years hands on formulation or lab experience (cosmetics or personal care preferred)
• Strong bench skills including weighing, mixing, heating/cooling, and pH adjustment
• Familiarity with stability programs and sample tracking
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation and organizational skills
• Able to work independently with clear direction
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) for documentation and data entry

The position is based at the corporate headquarters in Carson, CA, and will be fully on-site, 5 days per week (no remote or hybrid). The pay rate for this role is $35 per hour.

Dermalogica is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive culture where all employees are valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Dermalogica was founded by a skin therapist, so we know how to create custom skin care solutions that work – not just today, but for life. We offer professional-grade skin care education, products, and services to skin therapists and customers alike.