Senior R&D Chemist

5 days ago


Smithfield, New South Wales, Australia Private Advertiser Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

Senior R&D Chemist – Skincare & Personal Care Manufacturing

Location: Western Sydney, NSW

Reports to: Managing Director/General Manager

About the Business

A privately owned manufacturer specialising in skincare, cosmetic, and personal care products. The company partners with local and international suppliers to deliver high-quality formulations and manufacturing solutions for a diverse client base. With a strong focus on flexibility and innovation, the business supports both emerging and established brands with customised product development and reliable production services.

About the Role

We are seeking a Technical Manager or Senior R&D Chemist to take responsibility for product development, factory operations, and customer service. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working across both the laboratory and production floor while engaging directly with suppliers and clients. The position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with ownership, influence business decisions, and deliver technical excellence across multiple areas of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and optimise formulations for skincare and personal care products, from concept through to full-scale manufacture.
  • Conduct in-house stability and microbiological testing, ensuring compliance with GMP principles.
  • Negotiate with raw material and packaging suppliers to secure competitive pricing and maintain stock levels.
  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for clients, advising on formulation and resolving product or production concerns.
  • Create and maintain SOPs, production records, and compliance documentation.

Skills & Experience

  • Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmacy, or related field.
  • Proven experience in cosmetic/personal care formulation and scale-up.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and GMP standards.
  • Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills, with experience dealing directly with customers and suppliers.
  • Experience in small-to-medium manufacturing businesses is highly regarded.
  • Australian work rights are required for this position.

What's on Offer

  • Opportunity to work closely with business ownership and contribute directly to growth.
  • A broad and varied role spanning R&D, production, quality, and customer service.
  • Exposure to a dynamic and growing personal care/cosmetics industry in Western Sydney.

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