Principal Scientist


Idaho Falls
Permanent
USD125000 - USD150000
Research and Development
PR/579855_1772570679
Principal Scientist

Overview

This role supports the development of high‑performing products within the Skin, Sun, and Lip Care categories. The position is part of a mission‑driven organization focused on delivering safe, effective, and science‑backed consumer products. The company is known for long‑term stability, strong values, and a commitment to improving the well‑being of customers and communities.

Position Summary

The Principal Scientist will serve as the internal subject‑matter expert responsible for driving scientific strategy, leading formulation initiatives, and advancing innovative technologies across assigned product categories. This role requires deep technical expertise, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to translate consumer insights into robust, commercially viable formulations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead Innovation: Identify, assess, and drive adoption of new technologies, ingredients, and formulation strategies within Skin, Sun, and Lip Care.
  • Product Development: Convert product briefs into fully developed formulations that meet performance, safety, regulatory, and sensory expectations from concept through launch.
  • Testing & Validation: Plan, conduct, and oversee performance testing, stability studies, safety evaluations, and clinical assessments to substantiate product claims.
  • Market & Technology Assessment: Analyze competitive products, emerging trends, and relevant scientific advancements to guide category innovation.
  • Claims & Compliance Support: Partner cross‑functionally to ensure all product claims are scientifically supported and aligned with global regulatory standards.
  • Cross‑Team Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, Operations, Marketing, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution.
  • Scientific Leadership: Contribute to intellectual property development, support patent activities, and promote continuous improvement across formulation processes.
  • Ongoing Professional Development: Maintain awareness of scientific literature, new raw materials, evolving regulatory expectations, and market dynamics.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Chemistry or a related scientific field.
  • Experience: Minimum of 5 years in personal care, skin care, sun care, or adjacent consumer product categories.
  • Technical Expertise: Strong foundation in formulation chemistry, including in vitro, in vivo, and/or clinical testing methods.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of global cosmetic regulations, labeling requirements, and applicable quality standards.
  • Innovation Skills: Demonstrated capability in developing new formulations and improving existing product systems.
  • Analytical Skills: Proficiency in experimental design, data interpretation, and preparation of technical documentation.
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience creating technical reports, SOPs, and patent‑related materials.
  • Leadership: Collaborative mindset with experience mentoring scientific staff and working effectively across teams.
  • Location Requirement: Ability to relocate to the employer's on‑site location and work in-office full time.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

  • Recognized Workplace: Consistently acknowledged as a top employer.
  • Long‑Term Stability: Financially strong and known for maintaining organizational stability.
  • Purpose‑Driven Culture: Every project supports a broader mission focused on improving lives.
  • On‑Site Innovation: Access to advanced laboratories and hands‑on collaboration with experienced scientists.
  • Supportive Environment: Emphasis on integrity, creativity, and scientific rigor.
  • Quality of Life: Located in a scenic, outdoor‑centric region with a strong sense of community.

FAQs

Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.

Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.

We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business. 

That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.

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