Principal Hair Color Chemist

John Paul Mitchell Systems•Santa Clarita, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Hair Color Chemist to lead the development and optimization of high-performance professional hair color systems. This role requires deep technical expertise in oxidative and non-oxidative color chemistry, strong hands-on laboratory capability, and a clear understanding of salon and consumer expectations within the professional hair color market. The ideal candidate combines scientific rigor with commercial awareness and thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional collaborative environment.

Requirements

Successful development of professional hair color through hands-on formulation
Deep expertise in oxidative dye systems, semi-permanent dyes, alkalizing agents, bleaching chemistry, developers, and tone control technologies
Strong knowledge of polymers, conditioning systems, emulsions, rheology modifiers, and surfactants.
Experience transferring formulas from lab to manufacturing scale
Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (US, EU preferred)
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
Excellent communication skills with ability to translate technical data into clear business insights
Business acumen and understanding of salon professional market dynamics and consumer needs
Strong collaboration and teamwork skills
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field required
7+ years hands-on laboratory experience developing professional hair color systems

Nice To Haves

Experience in professional salon brands
Experience supporting global launches
Exposure to color cosmetics or adjacent beauty categories
Experience mentoring junior chemists
Master’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end development and reformulation of professional hair color systems including permanent color, demi/semi-permanent color, lighteners, and developers
Own formula architecture from concept through pilot and commercial scale-up
Design innovative systems aligned with brand positioning, performance benchmarks, cost targets, and global regulatory requirements
Serve as technical subject matter expert for hair color chemistry and bleaching systems
Drive raw material evaluation, alternative sourcing, and cost optimization initiatives
Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Regulatory, Quality, Packaging, and Operations to ensure successful commercialization
Support salon validation, claims substantiation, and instrumental performance testing
Troubleshoot complex formulation and manufacturing challenges
Maintain rigorous documentation in accordance with GMP and GLP standards
Monitor competitive landscape, emerging technologies, and ingredient innovations within the professional hair color space
Contribute to long-term platform development and innovation strategy