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Formulations Scientist

Paula's Choice SkincareSeattle, Washington, United StatesRemote, Onsite
This job is no longer open

Paula’s Choice is Your Right Choice!


Paula's Choice is a leading multinational skincare brand with over 29 years in the industry! Our mission is to empower people around the world with the knowledge and products they need to achieve their own definition of beauty. We're looking for passionate and talented people to join our team as we continue to revolutionize the beauty industry. Paula’s Choice is committed to diversity! Our customers come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes our company stronger.

We hope you agree. If you share our values and our enthusiasm for empowering people to achieve their own definition of beautiful, Paula’s Choice could be a wonderful fit for you.

What we offer you*:


  • A robust benefits package including health, vision, dental, retirement and more 
  • Flexible spending account, Employee assistance program 
  • Fitness perks, meditation app membership, and more 
  • Product samples and discounts 
  • Most roles are fully remote (roles that are required to be at our Seattle HQ can be found in the details section of this job post)
  • Great location – for roles that are hybrid or fully onsite, we’re in the heart of Seattle’s beautiful International District
  • Did we mention we’re a dog-friendly office?

*Please note these benefits are only available to full-time Paula's Choice employees. 

In addition to our core benefits outlined above, here’s some additional reasons you should consider a career at Paula's Choice:


  • We're committed to innovation – we’re constantly developing new and innovative products that are based on the latest scientific research.
  • We're customer centric – we believe that our customers deserve the best possible products and services.
  • We’re a diverse and inclusive workplace – we value diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our business and have committed to learning along the way. We believe that our employees' unique perspectives and experiences make us a stronger company.
  • We're passionate about making a difference – we believe that beauty is more than just skin deep. We're committed to using our platform to share research, education, and skin positivity.  

If you're looking for a career where you can make a real difference, join Paula's Choice today! We're looking for talented and passionate individuals to help us change the world one face at a time.


How you’ll have an impact at Paula’s Choice: 


The Research & Innovation team leads the discovery and development of new innovation and technology, and the creation of skincare development in our internal formulation lab and with external partners.As the 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.If you’re an experienced formulator skilled in creative thinking, building relationships, and have a passion for skincare, we would love to hear from you!Product Development at Paula’s Choice is R&D lead and starts with the science and is driven by what is truly safe and effective for skin.

You will have a unique opportunity to contribute to new innovation and work on blue sky concepts.

As a Formulations Scientist, a typical day might include a mix of the following:


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

The Details:


  • Location:Seattle, WA (Must be located in Seattle or willing to relocate)
  • On-Site Requirement: This individual must be willing to work on-site at our Seattle office 
  • Hours: Typical business hours
  • Physical requirements: Standing and working on the bench for most of the day
  • Travel requirements: 10-20%

What you’ll bring to the table:


  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related science field or equal work experience
  • 5+ 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 of 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.

What can help you really stand out:


  • 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

Approximate Salary Range Based on Experience and Location:


$100,000 - $115,000 USD/annually


#LI-NG1Paula’s Choice Skincare determines the pay for positions using local, national, and industry-specific survey data. We evaluate external and internal equity and the cost of labor/prevailing wage index in the relative marketplace for jobs directly comparable to jobs within our company. Our posted salary range is based on national data and may be refined for a candidate's region/town/cost of living.For new hires, we strive to make competitive offers allowing the new employee room for future growth.

The exact base salary is determined by various factors including experience, skills, education, geographic location, and budget. This position is also eligible for participation in the company discretionary bonus plan.Paula’s Choice Skincare  is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other classification protected by Federal, State or Local law.We are committed to create a workplace that is inclusive of all.

Where everyone feels empowered to bring their full authentic self to work.  Where embracing cultural differences, accepting others without bias, and antiracism are reflexes, not an initiative.Please note:At any time, with or without notice, Paula’s Choice reserves the right to add/delete/change the position’s requirements.If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us at careers@paulaschoice.com. This email is intended for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses.We take your privacy seriously.

For details please see our Privacy Notice.

This job is no longer open

Life at Paula's Choice Skincare

WE CREATE SKIN CARE THAT'S SHOCKINGLY STRAIGHTFORWARD\n#TRUTHINBEAUTY\n\nWe are dedicated to the research.\nWe never compromise on ingredients or outcomes.\nWe believe in multi-faceted formulas that give you a full spectrum of benefits.\nWe are committed to the truth even if that makes us unpopular.\nWe have an unwavering love and respect for women.\nNever wonder if a product will deliver.\nWe are fast-paced and team-oriented. We foster creativity from individuals and teams. We strive for growth in every aspect of our company. We are seeking experienced, talented and committed individuals to help lead us into our next phase of growth.\n\n\nHealth & Wellness\nWe offer top-tier benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), long and short term disability, flexible spending plans, and employee assistance program.\n\nPerks\nPaula’s Choice offers a generous paid-time-off (PTO) package, transportation stipend, gym membership and 50% off all Paula’s Choice products. We are also a dog-friendly work environment!\n\nAwesome Location\nWe are headquartered in the heart of Seattle’s beautiful International District. Our employees love the views of CenturyLink Stadium and downtown Seattle. We’re conveniently located next to the International District/China Town bus tunnel and King Street train station.\n\nFun\nWe work hard and we celebrate our accomplishments. Our Events Committee plans regular company-wide celebrations throughout the year to unwind and have fun. You’ll see Paula’s Choice employees riding the Seattle Ducks, at Mariner’s games, or connecting with fellow coworkers at company happy hours!
Thrive Here & What We Value1. Empowering people globally with knowledge for personalized beauty2. Sharing research and promoting skin positivity on platform3. Emphasizing diversity and inclusion in all business areas4. Comprehensive benefits package (health, vision, dental, retirement)5. Encouraging individual definitions of beauty6. Commitment to education and knowledge sharing7. Support for diverse workforce representation8. Focus on inclusive business practices9. Holistic employee benefits package10. Promotion of skin positivity culture
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