Lead Cosmetic R&D Chemist — Skin Care Innovation (On-Site)

Caliscc; Gardena (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Caliscc in Gardena, CA is seeking a Senior Cosmetic Chemist – R&D Lead to own end-to-end formulation from concept to launch. This on-site, leadership role drives lab development, stability programs, and regulatory compliance for a growing skin and body care line.

You will build the R&D function, manage scale-up and tech transfer, work with suppliers, optimize costs, and ensure MoCRA/Prop 65 compliance while delivering differentiated, market-ready products.

Qualifications

• 3+ years hands-on cosmetic or personal care formulation experience.
• Multiple commercially launched products developed from scratch.
• Deep expertise in emulsion science, preservative systems, rheology, and stability troubleshooting.
• Proven experience scaling formulas from bench to production.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. cosmetic regulations, including MoCRA.
• Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Ability to work independently in a small, fast-moving company.

Responsibilities

• Own full formula development from brief to launch for creams, lotions, serums, balms, cleansers and body care.
• Build and lead the R&D lab from scratch, including equipment selection, SOPs, and documentation.
• Oversee stability programs, packaging compatibility, and third-party testing.
• Lead tech transfer and scale-up to production or contract manufacturers.
• Manage formula costing and work to cost targets from the start.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and MoCRA listing, Prop 65, and labeling accuracy.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

Emulsion science

Preservative systems

Rheology

Stability testing

Scale-up to production

Regulatory compliance MoCRA/Prop 65

Laboratory leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

Caliscc in Gardena, CA is seeking a Senior Cosmetic Chemist – R&D Lead to own end-to-end formulation from concept to launch. This on-site, leadership role drives lab development, stability programs, and regulatory compliance for a growing skin and body care line.

You will build the R&D function, manage scale-up and tech transfer, work with suppliers, optimize costs, and ensure MoCRA/Prop 65 compliance while delivering differentiated, market-ready products.