R&D Formulation Chemist

Position Title:

R&D Formulation Chemist

Overview:

The R&D Formulation Chemist at Developlus is responsible for preparing and formulating laboratory batches under the guidance of the Senior Chemist and/or R&D Manager. This role is integral to product development processes, including hair color, shampoos, and other consumer goods , ensuring adherence to all regulatory and safety standards. Formulation experience within the cosmetic and hair care industry is required. A background in cosmetic chemistry and hands-on experience formulating hair care products is a strong plus . The Formulation Chemist directly reports to the R&D Manager.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability and experience in analyzing the composition and properties of materials used in the development of hair color and related hair care products.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in documenting all phases of research and development processes and procedures.
• Expertise in biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, or physical chemistry.
• Advanced analytical skills, including experimental design, background research, hypothesis formulation, procedure implementation, interpretation, and reporting.
• Capacity to study and assess the composition and attributes of hair color and hair care products.
• Ability to evaluate formulations, interpret data, and communicate opportunities for improvement.
• Competence in operating laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Proven experience in color matching.
• Direct experience with dyes, pigments, and emulsions.
• Strong mathematical aptitude is essential for accurate calculations.
• Outstanding multi-tasking, organizational, and time management abilities.
• Well-developed critical thinking skills and sound independent judgement.
• Excellent collaborative capabilities.
• Effective team player exhibiting a positive, professional attitude with a proactive approach.
• Superior verbal and written communication, including presentation proficiency.
• Preparedness to attend meetings and seminars, and report on relevant content.
• Ability to mentor and support less experienced colleagues.

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct experiments and present findings to the manager and product development team.
• Possess an understanding of chemical bonding and the properties of utilized substances.
• Continual development of new product lines.
• Research methods to enhance production processes for emerging products.
• Verify production protocols for pilot-scale batches.
• Examine the composition and properties of hair color and hair care products.
• Evaluate and formulate finished products for demonstration purposes, including hair dye blends.
• Create color-enhancing shampoos, conditioners, and masks.
• Develop color-depositing gels, lotions, liquids, creams, and foams (including semi-permanent, demi-permanent, permanent, and auto-oxidative variants).
• Produce bleach and lightening products.
• Perform stability testing and claims validation on developing product lines.
• Identify and advance continuous improvement initiatives for existing product ranges.
• Design new shades and conduct color matching activities.
• Liaise with raw material suppliers and evaluate their offerings.
• Stay informed about trends and innovations within the hair color industry.
• Manage the formula database and utilize formulation software efficiently.

Guidelines:

• Principal work conducted in laboratory settings.
• Execute experiments and proof-of-concept studies for novel products or enhancements.
• Collaborate with compounding, production, and quality assurance teams to resolve product-related concerns.
• Accountable for maintaining documentation, preparing laboratory reports, and presenting findings as requested.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Cosmetic Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of five years’ pertinent professional experience (i.e. R&D Hair Color Lab)

Language Skills:

• Capability to communicate and present research to product development and executive teams.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.

Mathematical Skills:

• Robust skills in mathematics, including proficiency in algebra and statistics.

Reasoning Ability:

• High technical competency.
• Advanced complex problem-solving skills.
• Strong critical thinking abilities.
• Capacity for independent decision-making.
• Commitment to ethical conduct.

Physical Demands:

• Regular verbal communication is required.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, manual dexterity, and reaching.
• Ability to stand for extended durations and lift 25–30 pounds.

Work Environment:

• Laboratory, office, and production floor environments.
• Exposure to moderate noise levels and variable temperatures.