Director of Process Engineer

Who We Are

iLABS is an innovation-focused, full service, global beauty company with proven track record for award winning formulas and product development. The art and science of innovation is in our DNA. Through our worldwide network of talented chemists, scientists and creatives, we bring authentic innovation and cutting-edge technology to every product we design.

The Way We Work

Whether you’re an established brand or an indie start-up, our team of beauty industry professionals nurture your project through each phase of development, from concept to finished goods. We take the time to understand your goals through access to cutting-edge technologies, raw materials, sustainable materials and the latest marketing analysis. Our dedicated team guides your vision, ensuring your product takes center stage in a crowded market.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Process Engineering Director to lead process development, optimization, and scale-up activities for our Cosmetics and OTC Topical Skin Treatments manufacturing operations. This role will focus on improving efficiency, product quality, and compliance across our production lines while supporting the introduction of new products and technologies in a GMP-regulated environment.

Responsibilities

Process Design & Optimization:

• Lead the design, scale-up, and optimization of processes for the production of topical creams, gels, lotions, emulsions, and other cosmetic formulations.
• Develop and implement robust manufacturing processes using cGMP principles, Six Sigma, and Lean methodologies.

Technical Leadership:

• Manage a team of process engineers and technicians; provide mentorship and technical guidance.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, and Production to ensure seamless technology transfer from lab to commercial scale.

Compliance & Quality:

• Ensure processes are compliant with FDA (OTC), ISO, and other regulatory standards.
• Support investigations, CAPAs, and validation efforts related to process deviations or failures.

Project Management:

• Oversee process engineering aspects of capital projects including equipment selection, commissioning, and validation.
• Prepare and manage budgets, timelines, and resources for process improvement and NPI (New Product Introduction) initiatives.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Develop and maintain process documentation such as batch records, SOPs, process flow diagrams (PFDs), and validation protocols.
• Analyze process data to identify trends and improvement opportunities; report KPIs to senior leadership.

Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).

Experience:

• 7+ years of process engineering experience in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or related regulated industry.
• Minimum 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Proven experience with emulsification, mixing, homogenization, and filling technologies.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of topical formulation technologies and process validation.
• Familiarity with FDA 21 CFR Part 210/211, ICH guidelines, and OTC monograph requirements.
• Proficient in statistical tools and software (e.g., Minitab, JMP) for process analysis.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MES systems and process automation platforms is a plus.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Cross-functional leadership
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and project management capabilities
• Continuous improvement mindset

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Benefits package (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D)
• Competitive 401(k) match with immediate vesting
• Paid time off (Vacation, Sick, Holiday, Summer Fridays
• Monthly birthday celebrations + other fun activities!
• Daily subsidized meals