R&D - Color Chemist Manager (Cosmetic OEM/ODM)

Company: Englewood Lab, Inc.
Department: R&D – Color lab.
Reports to: Leader of Color Chemistry
Location: Totowa, New Jersey

About Englewood Lab

Englewood Lab is a leading OEM/ODM manufacturer specializing in the development and production of skincare, color cosmetics, and OTC products. We partner with more than 100s major beauty brands and trusted partners, providing innovative product development and manufacturing solutions.

As we continue to expand our color cosmetics capabilities, we are seeking an experienced Color Cosmetics R&D Manager to join our R&D team.

Position Summary

The Color Cosmetics R&D Manager will lead the development and optimization of innovative color cosmetic formulations, with a strong focus on color matching, product performance, stability, and manufacturability.

This position will provide technical leadership to the Color Chemistry team, oversee formulation development activities, mentor and develop chemists, and collaborate closely with Project Management, Production, Quality, and customers to support successful product development and commercialization.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the formulation and development of innovative color cosmetic products, including new product concepts, line extensions, and improvements to existing formulations.
- Develop and optimize color cosmetic formulations, including makeup emulsions and various color cosmetic product formats.
- Oversee color matching and shade development to meet customer requirements and approved standards.
- Lead, supervise, mentor, and develop chemists, providing technical guidance in formulation development, color matching, and laboratory practices.
- Manage formulation development projects, establish priorities, and ensure timely completion of R&D activities.
- Develop and implement stability testing protocols for color cosmetic products, evaluate results, and recommend formulation improvements.
- Research and evaluate new raw materials, pigments, technologies, and formulation concepts to support product innovation.
- Maintain a strong understanding of color cosmetic ingredients, raw material functionality, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with Project Managers and customers to develop product formulations, textures, performance characteristics, and shade palettes that meet project expectations.
- Work closely with Production and Quality teams to support scale-up, first production batches, troubleshooting, and successful commercialization.
- Provide technical support in the manufacturing environment to resolve formulation and production-related challenges.
- Evaluate laboratory equipment needs and recommend improvements to enhance R&D capabilities and operational efficiency.
- Maintain accurate formulation records, laboratory documentation, and technical reports.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
- Minimum 8 years of R&D formulation experience , preferably in the cosmetics or personal care industry.
- Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in color cosmetics formulation , including makeup emulsions and other color cosmetic products.
- Strong expertise in color matching, shade development, and color cosmetic formulation techniques.
- In-depth knowledge of cosmetic raw materials, pigments, formulation technologies, and product stability.
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes, production equipment, and scale-up activities.
- Familiarity with applicable cosmetic regulations and quality requirements.
- Proven experience in leading, supervising, or mentoring chemists in an R&D environment.
- Strong project management, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with customers and cross-functional teams.
- Ability to manage multiple development projects and meet established timelines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 10–15 pounds.

Compensation & Benefits

Annual Salary Range: $90,000–$130,000 (Negotiable based on experience and qualifications)

Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, technical expertise, and leadership capabilities.

Benefits include:

- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Special Paid Leave for Employees' Personal Events
- Company-Paid Holidays
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
- Year-End Gift