R&D Cosmetic Chemist

ExecutivePlacements.com; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in Cape Town is seeking a hands-on Cosmetic Chemist to support New Product Development (NPD) and Quality Control (QC) in the manufacturing of cosmetic and personal care products. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of relevant experience in quality control and formulation. Responsibilities include developing products, performing quality checks, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This practical on-site role offers a salary ranging from R18,000 to R23,000 per month.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years’ experience in Quality Control within a manufacturing environment.
• 1–2 years’ experience in formulation/NPD.
• Experience in cosmetics or personal care manufacturing welcomed.

Responsibilities

• Develop cosmetic and personal care products.
• Manufacture lab and pilot batches.
• Perform QC on incoming raw materials.
• Conduct in-process quality checks.
• Maintain GMP, ISO 9001, and ISO 22716 requirements.

Skills

Quality Control

New Product Development

Formulation

GMP Compliance

Project Collaboration

Education

Diploma in Cosmetic Science

Degree in Chemistry

Certificate in Pharmaceutical Science

Degree in Food Science

Job description

Recruiter:

Ace Staffing

Job Ref:

A19

Date posted:

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Location:

Cape Town, South Africa

Salary:

R18 000 to R23 000 per month

SUMMARY:

R&D Cosmetic Chemist – NPD and QC

POSITION INFO:

We are looking for a hands‑on Cosmetic Chemist to support New Product Development (NPD) and Quality Control (QC) within a cosmetic and personal care manufacturing environment.

This is an on‑site, practical role suited to someone who enjoys being involved across the full product lifecycle — from formulation to production and quality release.

Key Responsibilities:

• New Product Development (Primary Focus)
• Formulate and develop cosmetic and personal care products including:
• Shower gels, face washes, toners, peels, serums, creams, roll‑ons, fragrances
• Manufacture lab and pilot batches
• Support stability, challenge, SPF, patch and other required testing
• Evaluate products for look, feel and performance prior to approval
• Work closely with internal stakeholders on ongoing and new projects
• Quality Control & Compliance
• Perform QC on incoming raw materials and packaging
• Conduct in‑process quality checks during manufacturing, filling and packing
• Maintain batch records, QC documentation and traceability
• Implement and maintain GMP, ISO 9001 and ISO 22716 requirements
• Support audits, mock recalls and corrective actions (NCRs)
• Assist with continuous improvement of quality systems and SOPs

Experience & Background:

• 2–3 years’ experience in Quality Control within a manufacturing environment (cosmetic, pharmaceutical or food)
• 1–2 years’ experience in formulation / NPD (internship or junior experience acceptable)
• Experience in cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceutical or food manufacturing welcomed
• (Skincare/cosmetics preferred but not essential)

Qualifications:

Diploma, certificate or degree in:

• Cosmetic Science
• Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Food Science or similar

Post‑graduate diploma or certification in cosmetic formulation is advantageous