Lead Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Relocation assistance

Professional growth programs

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks an experienced Lead Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer to design and scale innovative beauty formulations, blending scientific excellence with market insight. Requires a master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science and 7+ years of progressive experience in cosmetic formulation.

You will lead cross‑functional teams across marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing in a hybrid work arrangement, translating consumer insights into viable products while ensuring

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in cosmetic formulation and product development within the beauty industry.
• Demonstrated success in developing a diverse range of cosmetic products.
• In‑depth knowledge of cosmetic raw materials, their functions, and interactions.
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (FDA, EU, SAHPRA).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and in‑office responsibilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Experience with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• A creative mindset with a passion for innovation in the beauty sector.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize novel cosmetic formulations for skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics, focusing on efficacy, stability, and sensory appeal.
• Conduct comprehensive ingredient research, evaluating raw materials for performance, safety, and sustainability.
• Oversee stability testing, compatibility studies, and efficacy assessments for new and existing product lines.
• Collaborate with the marketing and R&D teams to define product concepts, target claims, and unique selling propositions.
• Manage the product development lifecycle from initial concept to final production, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.
• Provide technical expertise and support to the manufacturing team during scale‑up and production phases.
• Stay informed about global cosmetic regulations, industry trends, and emerging technologies.
• Mentor junior formulators and contribute to the overall scientific advancement of the R&D department.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including formulation reports, safety assessments, and manufacturing procedures.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

Product development

Regulatory knowledge

GLP/GMP

Hybrid teamwork

Education

Master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer to join their growing team in **Cape Town**. This hybrid role offers the unique opportunity to blend creative formulation with strategic product development, contributing to the launch of cutting-edge beauty and wellness products. You will play a pivotal role in conceptualizing, developing, and scaling new cosmetic formulations, ensuring they meet rigorous quality, safety, and efficacy standards. This position requires a deep understanding of cosmetic chemistry, market trends, and the ability to translate consumer insights into commercially viable products. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to bring groundbreaking ideas from the lab to the market. This is an exciting chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant city known for its beauty and innovation, with the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize novel cosmetic formulations for skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics, focusing on efficacy, stability, and sensory appeal.
• Conduct comprehensive ingredient research, evaluating raw materials for performance, safety, and sustainability.
• Oversee stability testing, compatibility studies, and efficacy assessments for new and existing product lines.
• Collaborate with the marketing and R&D teams to define product concepts, target claims, and unique selling propositions.
• Manage the product development lifecycle from initial concept to final production, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.
• Provide technical expertise and support to the manufacturing team during scale‑up and production phases.
• Stay informed about global cosmetic regulations, industry trends, and emerging technologies.
• Mentor junior formulators and contribute to the overall scientific advancement of the R&D department.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including formulation reports, safety assessments, and manufacturing procedures.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in cosmetic formulation and product development within the beauty industry.
• Demonstrated success in developing a diverse range of cosmetic products.
• In‑depth knowledge of cosmetic raw materials, their functions, and interactions.
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (e.g., FDA, EU, SAHPRA).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote and in‑office responsibilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Experience with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• A creative mindset with a passion for innovation in the beauty sector.

Benefits

This hybrid role offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Employees enjoy access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities and cutting‑edge formulation technology. Our client provides opportunities for professional growth through training programs, industry conferences, and continued education. You will be part of a collaborative and inspiring work environment in **Cape Town**, with the flexibility to work remotely on designated days. Additional benefits include performance bonuses, product allowances, and a relocation assistance package if applicable. This is a chance to shape the future of beauty products while enjoying the vibrant lifestyle **Cape Town** has to offer.