Senior Formulation & Product Development Lead (Hybrid)

L&R Distributors, Inc.; Encinitas (CA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

L&R Distributors, Inc. seeks a Product Development Manager of Formulation to lead high-impact cosmetic and OTC product initiatives from concept through commercialization.

This hands-on role focuses on formulation, testing, and scale-up with contract manufacturers for major retail channels. The candidate will drive OTC and SPF product development, ensure regulatory compliance, manage timelines and budgets, and collaborate with Regulatory, Quality, Packaging, and Commercial teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology or related field.
• 8+ years of product development experience in beauty, personal care, and/or OTC categories.
• Demonstrated experience with OTC drug products and SPF formulations.
• Strong background working with contract manufacturers.
• Proven ability to manage complex development timelines, testing programs, and budgets.
• Experience supporting major retail customers is preferred.
• Familiarity with shelf-ready packaging and retail quality expectations.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration with Packaging, Regulatory, and Quality teams.
• Willingness to travel to CM locations (primarily Los Angeles area) as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation development to achieve targeted performance, sensory attributes, appearance, and claims.
• Coordinate validation and commercialization readiness across product lines.
• Manage timelines, critical paths, and cost considerations for development and scale-up.
• Drive lab, pilot, and full-scale production in partnership with contract manufacturers.
• Ensure smooth transition into manufacturing with consistent quality and supply.
• Drive OTC and SPF product development under VP guidance and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate development testing, including stability, compatibility, and performance validation.
• Maintain clear documentation and communicate development progress to stakeholders.
• Lead end-to-end development of new products for various retail channels.

Skills

Formulation development

OTC formulations

SPF formulations

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Budget management

Supplier management

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field

Job description

L&R Distributors, Inc. seeks a Product Development Manager of Formulation to lead high-impact cosmetic and OTC product initiatives from concept through commercialization.

This hands-on role focuses on formulation, testing, and scale-up with contract manufacturers for major retail channels. The candidate will drive OTC and SPF product development, ensure regulatory compliance, manage timelines and budgets, and collaborate with Regulatory, Quality, Packaging, and Commercial teams.