Formulation Chemist
hace 7 días
Cedar Rapids
Job DescriptionPosition Summary The Formulation Development Chemist plays a hands-on role in the research, development, and commercialization of personal care products. This position is primarily focused on creating and optimizing formulations from early concept through launch, while also supporting manufacturing scale-up and technology transfer. Working closely with Manufacturing and Engineering, this role ensures that innovative formulations translate into reliable, scalable, and high-quality production processes. Key ResponsibilitiesFormulation Research & Development • Research, develop, and optimize personal care formulations from initial concept through commercialization., • Perform bench-scale formulation work to support new product development, reformulations, and line extensions., • Design and execute studies evaluating product performance, aesthetics, and physical stability., • Maintain accurate and detailed formulation records, experimental data, and development documentation., • Prepare and maintain formulation-related documentation, including specifications, ingredient declarations, and batch instructions., • Stay current on cosmetic ingredients, formulation strategies, and emerging technologies., • Source, evaluate, and qualify raw materials to support formulation development and innovation.Manufacturing Scale-Up & Process Support, • Support the transfer of formulations from laboratory to pilot and full-scale manufacturing., • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Production teams during scale-up and commercialization activities., • Assist in defining processing parameters such as order of addition, temperature control, mixing conditions, and materials handling., • Provide on-site formulation support during pilot runs, scale-up trials, and initial production., • Troubleshoot formulation- and process-related issues during manufacturing., • Recommend formulation or process improvements to enhance manufacturability, consistency, and efficiency.Cross-Functional Collaboration & Technical Communication, • Serve as a formulation subject matter expert for cross-functional teams supporting product development decisions., • Participate in technical discussions related to formulation design and product performance., • Support the evaluation and qualification of alternate raw materials to ensure supply continuity and manufacturing flexibility.Laboratory Operations & Compliance, • Support routine laboratory operations related to formulation development., • Maintain safe laboratory practices, organized workspaces, and compliance with company safety standards., • Develop protocols, methods, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) as needed., • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior R&D staff, as appropriate., • Demonstrate and promote company values (ASPIRE: Attitude, Safety, Passion, Integrity, Relationship, and Evolve)., • Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), safe practices, and applicable regulatory requirements., • Perform other duties as assigned.Required Skills & Technical Expertise, • Strong foundation in formulation chemistry and laboratory-based research and development., • Experience with wet chemistry techniques and analytical tools such as viscometers, HPLC, and FTIR., • Understanding of quality control, regulatory compliance, and FDA requirements., • Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on robust, manufacturable formulations., • Ability to collaborate effectively across R&D, Manufacturing, and Engineering teams.Qualifications, • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or a related field., • Minimum of 3 years of hands-on formulation experience within personal care or cosmetic product development., • Direct experience with bench-scale formulation development., • Working knowledge of scale-up, pilot batching, and technology transfer to manufacturing., • Familiarity with formulation–process relationships, including mixing, heating/cooling, and materials handling. This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $33.60/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Mar 4, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email for other accommodation options.