Senior R&D Chemist; Cosmetics

Position Overview

Senior Research & Development Chemist is an experienced researcher and formulator responsible for developing innovative personal care, cosmetic, and OTC products (including sunscreens and anti‑acne products). The role combines deep technical expertise with creativity, leadership, and strong communication skills to deliver market‑ready formulations that meet customer and regulatory requirements.

Onsite (Miami, FL)

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Direct Hire

TBC

• Initiate project concepts, define objectives, assign priorities, and manage multiple projects with minimal supervision
• Independently investigate and resolve formulation, research, and scale‑up challenges
• Develop personal care, cosmetic, and OTC formulations from concept through finished product
• Communicate directly with customers on technical, regulatory, and performance‑related topics
• Ensure compliance with FDA regulations, cGMPs, and applicable product development standards
• Identify and implement cost‑reduction opportunities, including raw material optimization
• Lead scale‑up of approved formulations and identify critical process variables
• Troubleshoot production issues and address batch variability
• Set product specifications and author compounding and manufacturing procedures
• Supervise and coordinate pilot and production batches
• Provide documentation for new formulas and raw materials to Operations and Quality teams
• Collaborate with QC to support testing and approval of new ingredients and finished goods
• Conduct vendor research and evaluate new raw materials
• Compose and review ingredient lists, QQs, and artwork for accuracy and compliance
• Interpret laboratory results, assess product risk, and communicate findings to Sales and leadership
• Stay current on retail market trends, formulation technologies, and ingredient innovations
• Train, mentor, and supervise laboratory staff (permanent and temporary)
• Perform additional duties as assigned

• Advanced formulation expertise and strong technical knowledge
• Thorough understanding of FDA regulations and cGMPs
• Ability to drive creative research and strategic product development recommendations
• Skilled at translating consumer insights into actionable formulation solutions
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment with tight deadlines
• Methodical, data‑driven approach to experimentation and problem solving
• Experience managing external suppliers and vendors
• Self‑motivated, independent, and collaborative work style
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• High level of initiative, innovation, critical thinking, and attention to detail
• Ability to work cross‑functionally and communicate effectively with all organizational levels
• Demonstrated leadership and mentoring capabilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 8+ years of personal care formulation experience OR
• Advanced degree in Cosmetic Chemistry or related discipline with 6+ years of relevant experience

• Master’s or PhD in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of experience formulating personal care and cosmetic products

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce.

Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Associate

Full‑time

Science

Staffing and Recruiting