Cosmetic Formulation Chemist

Formulation Chemist Job Description

The Formulation Chemist is responsible for the hands‑on development, optimization, and commercialization of personal care formulations. This role primarily focuses on formulation research and product development, with secondary responsibility for supporting manufacturing scale‑up and process transfer to ensure formulations can be reliably produced at pilot and production scale. The Formulation Chemist collaborates closely with Manufacturing and Engineering to bridge formulation intent with practical, scalable processing.

• Research, develop, and optimize personal care formulations from early concept through commercialization.
• Perform bench‑scale formulation work to support new product development, reformulations, and line extensions.
• Design and execute formulation studies related to performance, aesthetics, and physical stability.
• Maintain clear and accurate formulation records, procedures, and experimental results.
• Create and maintain formulation documentation, including specifications, ingredient declarations, and batch instructions.
• Source and evaluate raw materials in support of formulation development and innovation.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Production teams during scale‑up activities.
• Assist in defining processing parameters, order of addition, temperature control, and mixing conditions.
• Provide formulation support during initial production runs and scale‑up trials, troubleshooting formulation or process‑related issues encountered during manufacturing.
• Recommend formulation or process adjustments to improve manufacturability, consistency, and efficiency.
• Provide formulation expertise to cross‑functional teams to support product development decisions.
• Assist with evaluation and qualification of alternate raw materials when needed to support manufacturing continuity.
• Maintain safe laboratory practices and organized work spaces.
• Provide technical guidance to junior R&D staff as appropriate.
• Display and promote company values:
  Attitude, Safety, Passion, Integrity, Relationship, and Evolve.
• Develop protocols, methods, and SOPs as needed.

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Cosmetic Science.
• Minimum of 3 years of formulation experience in personal care or cosmetic science.
• Understanding of the chemical and formulation that goes into developing batches.
• Experience in personal care science or cosmetic science.

The position offers flexible 8‑hour shifts between 7am‑5pm, with potential for overtime or weekend work to meet production needs. You will be part of a team of 5 people and will communicate with other departments. The work environment is values‑led, emphasizing integrity, quality, and resilience, with opportunities for industry certifications, ongoing training, and leadership development. It is ideal for individuals seeking stability, growth, and a chance to contribute to a meaningful workplace culture.

This is a Permanent position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

The pay range for this position is $50,000.00 - $75,000.00/yr.

PTO Health insurance Paid Holidays 401k

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids, IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 16, 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.