R&D Manager

Apex Systems; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead a dynamic team in developing cutting-edge skincare products. This role combines hands-on formulation work with leadership, requiring a deep understanding of skincare science and a proven track record in product development. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment, guiding a team of chemists while managing multiple projects to deliver high-quality formulations. Join a company that values creativity, sustainability, and excellence in the cosmetics industry, and make a significant impact on product innovation and market differentiation.

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401K with Company Match

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Health Savings Account

Employee Assistance Program

Professional Development Opportunities

Certification Discounts

Corporate Discounts

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of management experience in cosmetics formulations.
• 10 years of total experience in product development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of 4-6 formulation chemists.
• Oversee the formulation of innovative skincare products.
• Conduct research on new raw materials and technologies.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Skincare Formulation

Project Management

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry

Chemical Engineering

Cosmetic Science

Job description

Seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead our team of personal care product developers.

This position requires a seasoned professional with strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of skincare formulation, and a proven track record in product development. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of management experience along with 10 years of total experience in cosmetics formulations. This is both hands-on formulation work and leadership of a team of 4-6 chemists.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and Mentor Team: Manage and mentor a team of 4-6 formulation chemists, fostering a collaborative environment and guiding their professional development.
• Skincare Product Development: Oversee the formulation and development of innovative skincare products, including creams, lotions, serums, and other topical applications.
• Research and Innovation: Conduct and guide research on new raw materials, key active ingredients, and cutting-edge technologies to enhance product performance and market differentiation.
• Project Management: Lead multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality formulations that meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Customer Collaboration: Work closely with customers to understand their needs, provide technical support, and present innovative formulation concepts.
• Scale-Up and Manufacturing: Partner with the manufacturing team to successfully scale up formulations from lab to production, maintaining consistency and quality.
• Documentation and Compliance: Maintain accurate documentation of formulations, processes, and project timelines while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.
• Industry Trends and Regulatory Compliance: Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and advancements in skincare science to ensure our formulations are at the forefront of the market.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in skincare formulation within the cosmetics industry, preferably at a CDMO.
• 2-3 years of direct management experience with a proven ability to lead and develop teams.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated expertise in developing successful skincare products from concept to market.
• Strong problem-solving skills and creativity in formulation and product development.
• Exceptional project management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects effectively.
• Established industry presence and strong customer relationships.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Experience with clean and high-performing formulations, with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly ingredient sourcing.

Preferred Knowledge, Certifications, Skills & Abilities:

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for cosmetic products in major markets (e.g., FDA, MOCRA, EU).
• In-depth knowledge of key active ingredients (e.g., retinoids, peptides, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants), raw materials, emulsions, surfactants, preservatives, and other cosmetic ingredients.
• Experience with advanced skincare technologies, such as peptides, antioxidants, and delivery systems.

Travel & Working Conditions:

• Office and laboratory environment, with periodic exposure to factory conditions and chemicals.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required.
• Travel: up to 25%

Other Duties:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Relocation is offered for a well qualified candidate

EEO Employer

Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at [e-mail] or 844-463-6178 .

Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated's Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Apex Benefits Overview:Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Apex team member can provide.