(Compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and qualifications and falls within the expected range for this role.)
*AI is not used: Artificial intelligence is not used to screen, assess, or select applicants for this role.
About Us
We are a boutique cosmetics contract manufacturing company based in Richmond Hill, ON, specializing in skincare, beauty, and personal care products. We provide turnkey solutions to brands of all sizes, combining innovation, flexibility, and quality. As we continue to grow, we’re seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Senior R&D Chemist to join our R&D team under the guidance of our Director of R&D.
Role Overview
The Senior R&D Chemist is responsible for leading the development, optimization, and commercialization of innovative cosmetic and personal care formulations. This role provides technical leadership throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept and laboratory development to scale-up and commercial production. The Senior R&D Chemist will collaborate closely with clients and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective, and compliant products while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the R&D department.
Key Responsibilities
Product Development & Innovation
- Lead the development and reformulation of skincare, haircare, and personal care products.
- Research new ingredients, technologies, and market trends to support innovation.
- Conduct sample matching, benchmark analysis, and formulation optimization.
Scale-Up & Manufacturing Support
- Lead scale-up activities from lab batches to commercial production.
- Troubleshoot formulation, processing, and quality issues during production.
- Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Purchasing teams to ensure successful product launches.
Regulatory & Quality Compliance
- Ensure formulations comply with applicable cosmetic regulations and safety requirements.
- Support stability, compatibility, and performance testing.
- Maintain accurate formulation of records, specifications, and technical documentation.
Project Leadership
- Manage multiple development projects and ensure timelines are met.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior R&D team members.
- Support customer inquiries and technical discussions as required.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in cosmetic or personal care product formulation and development.
- Strong knowledge of formulation chemistry, ingredient functionality, and manufacturing processes.
- Experience with product scale-up, troubleshooting, and commercialization.
- Knowledge of cosmetic regulations, product safety requirements, and GMP practices.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across departments.
Nice to Have
- Experience in skincare, haircare, or color cosmetics product development.
- Experience in contract manufacturing or private-label environments.
- Previous experience mentoring junior chemists or leading technical projects.
- Familiarity with international cosmetic regulations and product registrations.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Direct mentorship and support from the Director of R&D
- A collaborative and entrepreneurial work environment
- Opportunities for growth and professional development
- Exposure to innovative product development and full-service manufacturing projects
Pay: $60,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Richmond Hill, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- cosmetic or personal care formulation: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
