R&D Formulation Chemist II

eXpack Labs | Paramus, NJ Area | Full-Time | On-Site

At eXpack Labs, we partner with innovative beauty brands to bring exceptional skincare, haircare, and personal care products from concept to commercialization. As a fast-growing contract manufacturer, we're looking for an experienced R&D Formulation Chemist II to join our team and help create the next generation of beauty products.

If you're passionate about formulation science, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy collaborating with brands of all sizes, we'd love to hear from you.

• Develop innovative formulations from concept based on client briefs across skincare, haircare, personal care, and OTC topicals (where applicable).
• Customize formulations to achieve target performance, claims, and cost objectives.
• Partner with the VP of R&D to develop stable, high-performing products.
• Create prototypes and expand our internal formulation library.
• Troubleshoot formulation, stability, compatibility, and performance challenges.
• Maintain accurate formulation records, documentation, and version control.
• Stay current on ingredient innovations and emerging market trends.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing to ensure formulas are production-ready.
• Optimize formulations for equipment capabilities and batch scalability.
• Support pilot batches and first production runs while resolving technical issues.
• Develop formulations compliant with FDA cosmetic regulations and applicable international standards.
• Work closely with Regulatory and Quality teams to ensure documentation and approvals are complete.
• Partner with Procurement to identify raw materials and optimize costs.
• Collaborate with Packaging, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing, and Project Management teams to successfully launch products.
• Mentor junior formulators and laboratory technicians.
• Help establish laboratory best practices, SOPs, and formulation processes.
  

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, Pharmacy, or a related scientific field.

• 5–8 years of cosmetic formulation experience.
• Previous experience in a contract manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success managing multiple client-driven development projects simultaneously.
• Experience supporting scale-up, pilot batches, and commercial manufacturing.

• Strong formulation development and troubleshooting expertise.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Knowledge of cosmetic regulations and ingredient compliance.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects while meeting aggressive timelines.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

At eXpack Labs, you'll work with emerging and established beauty brands, helping transform ideas into products found on shelves around the world. We foster a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where innovation, speed, and quality are at the center of everything we do.

• Salary: $75,000–$105,000 annually (based on experience)
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Work with a passionate team developing cutting-edge beauty innovations

Ready to help shape the future of beauty?

• Apply today by sending your resume to michelle@expackusa.com

We can't wait to meet you!