Research & Development Specialist
Overview
The Research & Development (R&D) Specialist is responsible for supporting the development, testing, evaluation, and improvement of fragrance and cosmetic products. Assists in creating innovative formulations aligned with market trends, regulatory requirements, brand standards, and consumer preferences. The role collaborates closely with product development, marketing, quality assurance, manufacturing, suppliers, and regulatory teams to bring new products from concept through commercialization.
Essential Functions
- Develops and refines cosmetic, skincare, personal care, and fragrance formulations.
- Conducts research on raw materials, fragrance oils, active ingredients, and emerging market trends.
- Assists in the creation of new product concepts and line extensions.
- Evaluates product stability, compatibility, texture, color, scent, and overall performance.
- Prepares laboratory batches, prototypes, and product samples.
- Performs product testing and maintains accurate laboratory records, formulation documentation, and test results.
- Ensures formulations comply with applicable cosmetic and fragrance regulations and safety standards.
- Assists with ingredient reviews and compliance with FDA, IFRA, GMP, and other applicable regulations.
- Maintains technical documentation, specifications, and formulation records.
- Supports product claims substantiation and labeling review processes.
- Works closely with manufacturing teams to support scale-up and production processes.
- Collaborates with marketing and sales teams regarding product positioning, fragrance profiles, and consumer trends.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to product innovation and operational efficiency.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- Two (2) years of experience in research, development, and production of fragrance, cosmetics, or food industry.
- OR an equivalent combination of education, certification, and experience that results in the successful performance of the job. Additional education may substitute for required experience on one-for-one year basis or vice versa.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of cosmetic and fragrance formulation principles.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with compounding, mixing, or blending operations in a production setting.
- Understanding of fragrance raw materials and safe handling practices.
- Knowledge of GMP, ISO standards, or similar regulatory environments.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise instructions.
- Basic math and computer skills for batching and documentation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Work Environment
- Work requires lifting fifty (25-30lbs50) pounds ds or more and wearing protective equipment; exposure to extreme weather, noise, hazards; requiring climbing, crawling, lying, and working under pressure.
- Extended periods standing and moving throughout the building interacting with department heads.
- Long periods on various computing platforms conducting detailed and analytical research.
- Extended use of various lab and analytical equipment
On-site, Tucson, AZ
Full-Time
Mon-Fri, 8a-5p
Annual Salary: $65,000-$90,000; commensurate with experience and qualifications
Benefits; medical, dental, vision, 401K, 401K match, Paid Time Off, Employee discount program
Pay: $65,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Education:
Work Location: In person
