Location: Rochester
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: £35,000–£40,000 (depending on experience)

We’re looking for a Lab & Production Manager to run daily operations at KEM’s in-house cosmetics lab 🚀. You’ll manage production, oversee a small team of compounders, maintain GMP standards, and help us scale as we enter our most exciting growth stage yet. This is a hands-on role with leadership responsibility and a clear pathway to Head of Production.

About Us

KEM is a science-driven beauty brand entering an exciting new growth phase. We are committed to barrier-supportive skincare and innovative makeup, powered by cutting-edge formulation and technology. As we scale our in-house production, we’re looking for a Lab & Production Manager to lead daily operations and ensure our products are consistently produced to the highest quality standards.

Role Overview

As Lab & Production Manager, you will take ownership of daily production operations at our in-house lab. You’ll oversee a team of compounders, implement and enforce SOPs, maintain GMP standards, and ensure efficient, compliant, and safe production of our cosmetics and skincare products. This is a hands-on management role ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, scale-up environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the lab and production facility.
  
  
• Supervise and train compounders/production technicians.
  
  
• Oversee batch compounding, filling, and packaging preparation.
  
  
• Maintain and enforce SOPs, GMP standards, and batch records.
  
  
• Conduct routine QA checks and coordinate product retains for quality assurance.
  
  
• Manage raw material and packaging inventory, ensuring stock availability and accurate record-keeping.
  
  
• Oversee equipment use, calibration, and safety compliance.
  
  
• Collaborate with regulatory consultants and internal teams to ensure production is aligned with compliance requirements.
  
  
• Report directly to the Founder/CEO, providing weekly production updates and efficiency reports.
  
  

Skills & Experience

• 3–5+ years experience in a cosmetic/beauty lab or production environment.
  
  
• Strong understanding of GMP, SOPs, and quality standards in cosmetics manufacturing.
  
  
• Proven experience supervising or managing lab/production teams.
  
  
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
  
  
• Ability to work in a fast-paced startup/scale-up environment.
  
  
• Confident in problem-solving, process optimisation, and team leadership.
  
  

What We Offer

• £35,000–£40,000 salary depending on experience.
  
  
• Opportunity to grow into Head of Production as the business scales.
  
  
• Equity participation potential for the right candidate.
  
  
• 25 days holiday + UK bank holidays.
  
  
• Company pension scheme.
  
  
• Monthly KEM product allowance.
  
  
• Be part of a fast-growing, innovative beauty brand shaping the next era of cosmetics.
  
  

Location: Rochester
Job Type: Part-Time - Full time
Salary: £20,000–£22,000 (depending on experience)

Join KEM’s growing in-house lab team as a Compounder / Production Technician ✨. You’ll be hands-on with mixing, batching, and filling our skincare products every day. No two days are the same - this is a great opportunity for someone who wants to grow in the beauty industry and be part of a brand that’s redefining cosmetics.

About Us

KEM is a science-driven beauty brand focused on skincare and makeup innovation. We are scaling our in-house lab production and looking for enthusiastic and detail-oriented Compounders / Production Technicians to join our team. This is a hands-on role at the heart of product making.

Role Overview

As a Compounder at KEM, you will be responsible for daily batch making of cosmetic and skincare products under the guidance of the Lab & Production Manager. You’ll follow SOPs closely, ensure quality and safety standards are maintained, and support the efficient production of products that will reach customers around the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, weigh, and mix raw materials according to SOPs and batch sheets.
  
  
• Operate lab and production equipment safely and efficiently.
  
  
• Support filling, labelling, and packaging preparation as needed.
  
  
• Follow strict hygiene and cleanliness standards in the lab.
  
  
• Maintain accurate batch records and documentation.
  
  
• Assist in basic QA checks and retain sample storage.
  
  
• Work closely with the Lab & Production Manager to ensure smooth daily production.
  
  
• Perform general housekeeping duties to keep the lab clean, safe, and organised.
  
  

Skills & Experience

• Previous lab, manufacturing, or production experience preferred (cosmetics, pharma, or food industry a bonus).
  
  
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written SOPs.
  
  
• Team player with good communication skills.
  
  
• Physically able to handle manual tasks (lifting raw materials, operating equipment).
  
  
• Punctual, reliable, and motivated to learn.
  
  

What We Offer

• £20,000–£22,000 salary depending on experience.
  
  
• Full training provided on KEM’s production processes and GMP standards.
  
  
• Clear pathway to progress into senior technician or QA roles.
  
  
• 25 days holiday + UK bank holidays.
  
  
• Company pension scheme.
  
  
• Monthly KEM product allowance.
  
  
• Be part of a growing brand at an exciting stage of expansion.