R&D Chemist (Junior Level) - Skincare
The Junior R&D Chemist at Confidential Client supports skincare product development by preparing lab batches, measuring physical parameters, and maintaining detailed documentation. This role involves collaboration with multiple departments and vendor communication to ensure quality and innovation in skincare formulations, adhering to safety and GMP standards.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level R&D Chemist (Skincare) to join their R&D team in Totowa, NJ. This full-time, hands-on role supports formulation development, batch preparation and testing, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Maintain an accurate, up-to-date lab notebook and documentation
- Prepare and make lab batches for product development and stability testing
- Create qualitative and quantitative ingredient lists for formulations
- Check next-day specifications against previous batches and report discrepancies
- Follow up on ongoing stability studies and report observations
- Analyze lab batches by measuring physical parameters such as viscosity, pH, and density
- Enter formulations into the company’s formulation system
- Communicate with raw material vendors and attend vendor presentations
- Assist with formulation and development of skincare products, including line extensions and improvements
- Collaborate with QA, Regulatory, Production, and Marketing teams
- Maintain laboratory equipment and organize raw materials and samples
- Follow laboratory safety procedures, GMP, and internal quality standards
- Manage time effectively to meet batch, testing, and project deadlines
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (or Biology with coursework in general and organic chemistry)
- 0–3 years’ experience in R&D, formulation, and emulsions — experience in skin care product development preferred
- Strong understanding of cosmetic raw materials, formulation principles, and production equipment
- Well organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks
- Strong time management and communication skills
- A genuine interest and passion for cosmetics and skin care product development
- Ability to lift and carry up to 10–15 pounds
Compensation & Benefits
The approximate pay range for this position is $60,000 - $68,000 per year. Final compensation may vary based on experience, knowledge, and skills.
Benefits include:
- Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life / AD&D Insurance
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and special paid leave for personal events
- Company paid holidays
- 401(k) with employer match
- Year-end gift
This position is based in Totowa, NJ and is a full-time role.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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