Research and Development Cosmetic Chemist

The R&D Cosmetic Chemist will be at the forefront of developing innovative, safe, and high-quality cosmetic formulations for clients. This role involves formulating skincare, haircare, and personal care products to meet client specifications while ensuring compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including Quality Assurance, Production, and Client Services, to bring new products from concept to production.

**Key Performance Areas**:

- Formulation Development:_
- Develop innovative cosmetic formulations in alignment with industry trends and customer requirements.
- Experiment with different raw materials, ingredients, and techniques to create stable, effective, and appealing products.
- Adjust formulas to improve efficacy, performance, texture, scent, and other product characteristics based on customer feedback and market demand.
- Product Testing and Evaluation:_
- Conduct lab-scale trials to test formulation stability, compatibility, and performance.
- Perform sensory, physical, and chemical testing, ensuring formulations meet product specifications.
- Collaborate with Quality Assurance (QA) to troubleshoot issues and optimize product quality.
- Documentation and Compliance:_
- Prepare detailed reports, formulation records, and technical data sheets for all developed products.
- Ensure formulations comply with regulatory standards, including local and international regulations on cosmetic products.
- Document all experimental and testing activities as per Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and maintain up-to-date records.
- Research and Innovation:_
- Stay updated on industry trends, new raw materials, and emerging technologies in cosmetic science.
- Evaluate new ingredients and suppliers for potential inclusion in formulations.
- Generate innovative ideas to improve product formulations, sustainability, and cost efficiency.
- Cross-functional Collaboration:_
- Work closely with Production, Marketing, QA, and Procurement teams to align on product specifications and ensure smooth scale-up for manufacturing.
- Support Product Development and Commercial teams with technical expertise on formulations and ingredient functionality.
- Participate in training sessions to share formulation knowledge with relevant teams.
- Process Optimization:_
- Collaborate with Manufacturing and Process Engineers to refine production processes for new formulations.
- Identify opportunities to streamline development processes and reduce production costs.

**Required Skills and Competencies**:
Chemistry and Cosmetic Science: In-depth knowledge of cosmetic chemistry, ingredient functionality, and formulation techniques.

Analytical Skills: Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex formulation challenges.

Attention to Detail: Precision in formulation development and testing to maintain product consistency and safety.

Creativity and Innovation: Ability to think creatively to develop unique, market-leading products.

Project Management: Skilled in managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and maintaining thorough records of all formulations and processes.

**Qualifications and Experience**:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Experience: At least 5 years of experience in cosmetic formulation, ideally within the contract manufacturing or personal care products environment.

Certifications: Certification from the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (CosChem) or similar organization.

Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with regulatory requirements for cosmetics in South Africa is an advantage.

Pay: R360 000,00 per year

Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/03/01