Cosmetics R&D Director: Innovation & Impact

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc.; California (MO); On-site; USD 130,000 - 139,000; Full time

Job summary

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. in Los Angeles seeks a senior chemist leader to head the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products.

You will oversee a team of chemists and lab technicians from concept to launch, ensuring feasibility, quality, and regulatory compliance. You will collaborate with Marketing to translate initial concepts into marketable products, manage multiple projects and budgets, and guide scale-up and manufacturing support for successful

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related field required.
• 7+ years of cosmetic formulation experience (color and skincare).
• Past leadership or team management experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of color and skincare chemists and lab technicians.
• Oversee formulation of new color cosmetics and skincare products.
• Evaluate raw materials, trends, and new technologies to drive innovation.
• Manage multiple development projects, timelines, and budgets.
• Partner with Marketing and Operations to align product development with company goals.
• Guide scale-up processes and support Manufacturing during commercialization.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, OTC (as applicable), and international cosmetic regulations.
• Oversee stability testing, safety testing, and claims substantiation.
• Maintain detailed formulas, documentation, and project records.
• Manage lab operations, equipment, and inventory.
• Enforce lab safety protocols and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s in Chemistry

Cosmetic Science

Job description

Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. in Los Angeles seeks a senior chemist leader to head the formulation, innovation, and development of color cosmetics and skincare products.

You will oversee a team of chemists and lab technicians from concept to launch, ensuring feasibility, quality, and regulatory compliance. You will collaborate with Marketing to translate initial concepts into marketable products, manage multiple projects and budgets, and guide scale-up and manufacturing support for successful