Cosmetic Formulation Scientist – Makeup R&D

Estée Lauder Companies; Melville (NY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance coverage (medical, Rx

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Paid leave and holidays

Job summary

Estée Lauder Companies in Melville, NY, seeks an R&D Scientist to join our Makeup team. This hands-on, lab-based role develops high-performance cosmetic formulations from concept to market, blending chemistry, formulation science, and consumer experience.

You will design, test, and optimize formulations, perform stability assessments, and document results while adhering to GMP and safety standards. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field and 2+ years in cosmetics are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry or related field.
• 2+ years relevant experience in a scientific role within cosmetics or related consumer goods.
• Strong hands-on laboratory and formulation skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong documentation practices.
• Ability to manage workstream with moderate independence.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize cosmetic formulations aligned with project briefs and regulatory requirements
• Plan and execute structured experiments and analyze data to inform technical decisions
• Conduct stability assessments and evaluate formulation robustness and feasibility
• Create lab batches, perform shade matching, and support cross-functional submissions
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges using scientific and data-driven approaches
• Maintain accurate documentation, lab notebooks, and batch records
• Monitor stability and elevate risks or anomalies
• Communicate project progress, risks, and recommendations
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure technical readiness
• Follow all lab safety, GMP, and compliance standards

Job description

Estée Lauder Companies in Melville, NY, seeks an R&D Scientist to join our Makeup team. This hands-on, lab-based role develops high-performance cosmetic formulations from concept to market, blending chemistry, formulation science, and consumer experience.

You will design, test, and optimize formulations, perform stability assessments, and document results while adhering to GMP and safety standards. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field and 2+ years in cosmetics are required.