Chemist, Applied Research

About Us

Imagine the innovation and expertise behind the world’s leading cosmetic brands, brought to you by a distinguished Italian company with a legacy of excellence. Since 1972, Intercos Group has been at the forefront of color cosmetics, pencils, nail polish, skincare, and personal care products. We pride ourselves on being the only cosmetics manufacturer that combines top-tier quality and advanced technology with a global reach and a personalized touch.

With 16 commercial offices and 16 production facilities across 12 countries, Intercos Group brings a local approach to a global stage. We continually set the standard for beauty, crafting exceptional product lines for brands worldwide. As one of the largest suppliers in the cosmetics industry, we are a leading force in the research, development, and production of beauty products, shaping the future of the industry with every season.

Position Summary

The Chemist, Applied Research is responsible for all technical activities related to new and existing formulation, innovation and 1st production scale-up of new formulations in Congers, NY.

Essential Functions

• Lead formulation and development of powder-focused cosmetic products while also formulating and supporting development of emulsion and anhydrous technologies as project needs arise.
• Facilitate end-to-end development for assigned projects, including innovation, line extensions, reformulations, and performance upgrades across powder, emulsion, and anhydrous categories.
• Identify and integrate new or improved raw materials, formulation technologies, and processing methods to elevate product performance while respecting constraints such as cost targets, regulatory requirements, and client blacklists.
• Collaborate directly with clients to define formulation targets, troubleshoot issues, and deliver technical solutions aligned with brand expectations.
• Provide technical support through clear verbal communication, written documentation, and formal presentations to internal teams and external customers.
• Conduct proactive research to scout emerging concepts, advanced materials, new texture formats, and global innovation opportunities relevant to powders, emulsions, and anhydrous formulations.
• Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, Packaging, and Corporate Applied Research to ensure alignment
• Monitor preliminary product stability for new and existing formulations.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects in a high-speed, deadline-driven environment, providing frequent updates to managers and stakeholders.
• Execute all formula creation, customization, and documentation within DEVEX, ensuring compliance with SOPs, BPM communication standards, and Intercos development protocols.
• Support global standardization efforts by collaborating with Corporate Applied Research to harmonize processes, testing methods, and technical databases.
• Maintain organized laboratory notes, batch records, and project documentation, reviewing all activities with the direct supervisor.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a Scientific Discipline such as Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or related field.
• Understanding of cosmetic formulation science, with emphasis on powder technology (e.g., pigments, binders, dispersions, powders processing).
• Working knowledge of emulsion and anhydrous formulation principles.
• Familiarity with raw materials, GLPs, GMPs, FDA guidelines, global regulatory requirements, and color cosmetics technologies.
• 1–3 years of hands-on experience in cosmetic formulation, preferably including powders
• Experience working in a very fast-paced laboratory or R&D environment with shifting priorities.
• Proven ability to adapt to rapid project changes, evolving client requests, and urgent internal priorities.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple formulations simultaneously in a deadline-driven setting.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, SAP, DEVEX, and other relevant technical software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation, presentations, and client-facing communication.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Professional, organized, detail-oriented, and collaborative within a dynamic team environment.

Job Benefits

Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement Plans: 401(k) plan, often with company matching

Life Insurance: Coverage for employees in the event of death or disability

Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation days, sick leave, and personal days

Holidays: Paid company holidays and floating holidays

Professional Development: Training programs and opportunities for career advancement

Company Events: Team-building activities, social events, and company outings

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional issues.

EEO

Intercos Group is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We believe that a wide range of perspectives and experiences enhances our innovation and success. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to any of these characteristics. We are dedicated to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment and promotes equal opportunity for all.