Senior Cosmetic Chemist & Product Development Lead

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Performance-based bonus

Relocation assistance

Learning opportunities and conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Cosmetic Chemist & Product Development Lead to spearhead innovative R&D in Rustenburg. You will conceptualize, formulate, and guide development of beauty and personal care products, translating market insights into high-performance formulations.

You will lead a team of chemists, manage timelines and budgets, collaborate with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing, and ensure compliance with global cosmetic regulations while delivering commercially viable

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years in cosmetic formulation and product development.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development from concept to commercialization.
• Oversee testing, regulatory compliance, and safety assessments.
• Mentor and manage a team of chemists and formulators.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing.
• Prepare technical documentation and stay updated on cosmetic regulations.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

R&D leadership

Regulatory compliance

Project management

Team mentoring

Analytical skills

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is searching for an accomplished Senior Cosmetic Chemist & Product Development Lead to spearhead their innovative R&D efforts in Rustenburg . This critical role involves conceptualizing, formulating, and guiding the development of cutting-edge beauty and personal care products. You will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, translating market insights and consumer trends into high-performance, safe, and aesthetically pleasing formulations. This position requires a deep understanding of raw materials, surfactant chemistry, emulsion technology, and preservative systems, coupled with a keen business sense to align product development with commercial objectives. You will lead a team of chemists and formulators, manage project timelines, and collaborate closely with marketing, regulatory, and manufacturing departments. The ideal candidate possesses a strong scientific background, a proven track record in cosmetic formulation, and exceptional leadership capabilities. Join us in shaping the future of beauty with innovative, science-backed products designed for discerning consumers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation and development of new cosmetic and personal care products from concept to commercialization.
• Conduct extensive research on raw materials, new technologies, and market trends to identify innovation opportunities.
• Develop and optimize cosmetic formulations, ensuring product efficacy, stability, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Oversee laboratory testing, including physical, chemical, and microbiological analyses.
• Manage and mentor a team of cosmetic chemists and formulators, providing technical guidance and support.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless product launch.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and provide technical solutions throughout the development process.
• Prepare technical documentation, including formulation reports, safety assessments, and manufacturing guidelines.
• Stay current with global cosmetic regulations and ensure all product developments meet legal requirements.
• Manage project budgets and timelines effectively to meet R&D objectives.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in cosmetic formulation and product development within the beauty industry.
• In-depth knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, formulation techniques, and current R&D methodologies.
• Proven experience leading R&D projects and managing a team of scientists.
• Familiarity with various product categories (e.g., skincare, haircare, color cosmetics).
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for cosmetic products in major global markets.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and bring new products to market successfully.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a performance-driven bonus structure.
• This role provides an exceptional opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art R&D facility and lead groundbreaking projects that impact the global beauty market.
• You will have access to continuous learning opportunities, attend industry conferences, and contribute to cutting-edge scientific advancements.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.
• We foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment where scientific curiosity and innovation are encouraged and rewarded.