Remote Senior Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,811,000 - 2,799,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Remote Senior Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer to drive the innovation pipeline for a global beauty brand. You will conceptualize, develop, and scale high-performance cosmetic products from anywhere, collaborating with R&D, marketing, and regulatory teams to ensure safety and commercial viability.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in cosmetic chemistry, formulation science, and market trends, with at least 8 years of hands-on experience

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation and product development across multiple categories.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop skincare, makeup, and hair care products from concept to production.
• Research new ingredients, technologies, and market trends to identify opportunities.
• Design bench formulations and scale-up to manufacturing with performance and safety in mind.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and ensure product specifications are met.
• Oversee pilot plant production and scale-up activities for smooth transitions to manufacturing.
• Collaborate with marketing and product teams to translate concepts into market-ready products.
• Work with regulatory to ensure compliance with global cosmetic regulations and safety standards.
• Prepare technical documentation including formulations, procedures, and stability reports.
• Evaluate raw materials and finished goods for quality and efficacy.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

Product development

Regulatory awareness

Education

Chemistry

Cosmetic Science

Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an innovative and fast-growing global beauty brand recognized for its cutting-edge formulations, is seeking a highly experienced Remote Senior Cosmetic Formulator & Product Developer. This role is critical to driving the innovation pipeline and ensuring the creation of high-performance, safe, and commercially viable cosmetic products. Working entirely remotely, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, marketing, and regulatory affairs to conceptualize, develop, and scale new cosmetic products. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of cosmetic chemistry, ingredient efficacy, formulation science, and current market trends. You must be adept at virtual collaboration, project management, and problem-solving within a remote work structure. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned formulator to contribute significantly to a dynamic beauty brand from anywhere, impacting product lines enjoyed by consumers worldwide, with initial alignment to their **Limpopo** region operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and develop innovative skincare, makeup, and hair care products from concept to final production.
• Conduct extensive research on new ingredients, technologies, and market trends to identify product opportunities.
• Design and execute laboratory bench formulations, optimizing for performance, stability, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and develop solutions to meet product specifications.
• Oversee pilot plant production and scale-up activities, ensuring smooth transition to manufacturing.
• Collaborate closely with the marketing and product development teams to translate concepts into market-ready products.
• Work with regulatory affairs to ensure compliance with global cosmetic regulations and safety standards.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including formulation recipes, manufacturing procedures, and stability reports.
• Evaluate raw materials and finished goods for quality and efficacy.
• Stay current with industry best practices and scientific advancements in cosmetic chemistry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation and product development across multiple categories (skincare, makeup, hair care).
• Expertise in cosmetic ingredients, their functions, interactions, and safety profiles.
• Proven ability to develop innovative and high-performing formulations.
• Strong understanding of cosmetic manufacturing processes, scale-up, and quality control.
• Familiarity with global cosmetic regulations (e.g., FDA, EU, ASEAN).
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in virtual collaboration tools and remote work practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Creative mindset with a passion for beauty and innovation.

Benefits

• This remote position offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with extensive experience and a proven track record in cosmetic formulation.
• Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and generous paid time off.
• You will have the flexibility to work from any location, promoting an exceptional work-life balance.
• Our client provides access to cutting-edge research, advanced formulation technologies, and opportunities for professional growth through industry conferences and continued learning.
• Join an ambitious and creative team that values innovation and sustainability in the beauty industry, with initial connection to their **Limpopo** regional oversight.