Senior R&D Chemist: Lead Concepts to Shelf

Novaris Search Limited; Minnesota; On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Novaris Search Limited partners with a leading personal care contract manufacturer to recruit a Senior R&D Chemist for their formulation team. This high-visibility, hands-on role takes products from concept to commercialisation, collaborating with well-known brand customers and shaping the pipeline through gap analysis and category insight.

You will lead formulation development, oversee scale-up, supervise lab staff, and drive cost-down and material optimisation.

Qualifications

• Advanced formulation expertise across personal care, cosmetic, and/or OTC products.
• Knowledge of lab equipment, techniques, and safe chemical handling.
• Understanding of FDA regulations and cGMP compliance.
• Strong communication with clients, vendors, and senior stakeholders.
• Leadership and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Excellent prioritisation and deadline management.
• Attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation from concept to finished product for personal care lines.
• Manage multiple projects with minimal supervision.
• Drive scale-up and pilot batches, troubleshooting issues.
• Lead customer-facing technical discussions on formulation and regulatory.
• Mentor lab staff and develop the team.
• Set specifications and write procedures; support QC.

Skills

Formulation expertise

Lab techniques

FDA regulations

Client communication

Leadership

Project prioritisation

Attention to detail

MS Office

Education

BS in Chemistry/Cosmetic Science

Advanced degree in Cosmetic Chemistry

Job description

Novaris Search Limited partners with a leading personal care contract manufacturer to recruit a Senior R&D Chemist for their formulation team. This high-visibility, hands-on role takes products from concept to commercialisation, collaborating with well-known brand customers and shaping the pipeline through gap analysis and category insight.

You will lead formulation development, oversee scale-up, supervise lab staff, and drive cost-down and material optimisation.