Senior Cosmetic Innovation & R&D Lead

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Senior Cosmetic Formulator & R&D Specialist for their facility in Mahikeng, North West. This role drives innovation and development of cosmetic and personal care products, creating novel formulations, optimizing existing ones, and ensuring stability, efficacy, and safety.

You will join a dynamic R&D team, collaborate with cross-functional groups, mentor junior formulators, and stay ahead of trends and regulations.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Cosmetic Chemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation and product development.
• Proven expertise in developing skincare, haircare, and other cosmetic products.
• Strong knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, their functions and interactions.
• Familiarity with global cosmetic regulations (FDA, EU Cosmetics Regulation).
• Excellent laboratory skills including analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• A passion for cosmetic science and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and commercially viable formulations for skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics.
• Conduct bench formulation, ingredient testing, and process optimization.
• Perform stability testing and compatibility studies for new and existing products.
• Troubleshoot formulation issues and identify solutions to improve performance and manufacturing efficiency.
• Stay current with cosmetic ingredients, technologies, trends, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing teams.
• Prepare technical documentation including formulation reports and specifications.
• Mentor junior formulators and contribute to R&D growth.
• Ensure all R&D activities adhere to safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Source and evaluate new raw materials and suppliers.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

R&D

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Education

MSc or PhD in Cosmetic Chemistry / related field

Tools

Laboratory techniques

Job description

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Senior Cosmetic Formulator & R&D Specialist for their facility in Mahikeng, North West. This role drives innovation and development of cosmetic and personal care products, creating novel formulations, optimizing existing ones, and ensuring stability, efficacy, and safety.

You will join a dynamic R&D team, collaborate with cross-functional groups, mentor junior formulators, and stay ahead of trends and regulations.