Senior Formulations Scientist

Paula's Choice Skincare • Seattle, WA

70d • $115,000 - $130,000

About The Position

Paula’s Choice, a global skincare leader founded in 1995, empowers individuals to define beauty on their own terms through science-backed products. Our mission comes to life through four core values that guide our actions, decisions, and impact: Build Trust, Be Bold, Act with Kindness, and Create Community. Our team spans North America, Australia/New Zealand, Europe, and the broader APAC region, collaborating globally to drive innovation. We offer space to thrive—personally, professionally, and through our comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being at every stage. As a Senior Formulations Scientist, you will create new skin care development in our internal formulation lab, located in downtown Seattle. This key role will help drive our speed-to-market and innovation initiatives through the design, development, and execution of highly effective and quality formulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related science field or equal work experience.
• 7+ years of experience formulating effective skin care products that have resulted in successful launches in a range of formats (creams, lotions, gels, liquids).
• Strong knowledge of personal care ingredients, chemistry, product stability, and manufacturing processes.
• Skilled user of the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• A high proficiency in troubleshooting and problem solving.
• Strong organization and attention to detail.
• Outstanding oral and written communication.
• Self-sufficient and able to work independently, as well as in team settings.

Nice To Haves

• Strong background and knowledge in formula transfer, scaleup, manufacturing, and trouble-shooting stability issues.
• Ability to objectively read and interpret scientific findings.
• Strong understanding of product quality related issues.
• General understanding of global regulatory formula requirements.
• Experience and training with GMP guidelines.
• Working knowledge of Smartsheet.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine cosmetic formulations for skincare (cosmetics and OTC). Ensure formulations meet efficacy, safety, and stability requirements.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging ingredients, and technological advancements. Participate in product ideation and blue-sky development to drive new product development (NPD).
• Conduct research on new raw materials, formulation techniques, and emerging trends. Evaluate and source new ingredients for potential inclusion in formulations.
• Design and oversee stability, compatibility, and performance testing for new and existing products. Review and interpret testing results to make data-driven decisions.
• Enter formulas into the formula control system. Maintain accurate records of formulation processes and test results. Ensure all products comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Product Development, manufacturing, quality assurance, packaging, etc., to ensure successful product development and launch.
• Address and resolve formulation issues, such as stability, performance, or sensory attributes. Provide solutions to improve product quality and efficiency.
• Engage with suppliers and vendors to evaluate and procure raw materials. Stay informed about supplier innovations and potential new ingredients.
• Support quality control efforts by reviewing and approving stability and performance reports. Assist in resolving quality issues and improving product formulations.
• Propose cost-saving measures and suggestions to reduce lead times.
• Assist with the transfer of formulas to third-party manufacturers and help verify formula reproducibility prior to production.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including time off to volunteer.
• Learning and development resources to support personal and professional growth.
• Wellness benefits like meditation app memberships, product discounts, and free samples of our amazing products.
• Most roles are fully remote.
• Great location for hybrid or fully onsite roles in Seattle’s beautiful International District.
• Dog-friendly office.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees