Associate Scientist

Job Title: Associate Scientist

Job Description

The Associate Scientist will develop, validate, and execute advanced analytical methods to support drug substance and drug product programs across multiple phases of development in a regulated GMP/GLP environment. This role combines hands-on laboratory work with method development, data review, technical documentation, and direct support of client projects in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device sectors. The position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to improving public health through high-quality science and rigorous analytical testing.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and execute analytical methods, including HPLC, LC/MS, GC, GC/MS, ICP‑MS, ELISA, and MSD, to support drug substance and drug product programs.
• Perform sample analysis for small and large molecules across multiple phases of development while meeting strict regulatory timelines.
• Independently author, review, and execute standard operating procedures (SOPs), analytical methods, validation protocols, and final client reports in compliance with GMP/GLP requirements.
• Critically review raw data for accuracy, integrity, and regulatory compliance with moderate to minimal supervision.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and perform minor repairs on analytical instrumentation to ensure uninterrupted project execution.
• Coordinate consumables, reagents, and equipment needs to meet client timelines and project budgets.
• Ensure laboratory readiness, safety, and inspection preparedness for regulatory and client audits.
• Stay current with advancements in analytical chemistry and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and technology adoption.
• Manage multiple client projects simultaneously and adapt to shifting priorities in a deadline‑driven environment.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams and clients, providing clear technical interpretations and updates on project status.

Essential Skills

• At least 3 years of experience working in a GMP and/or GLP environment, with 3–7 years of hands‑on experience in an analytical laboratory.
• Strong background in analytical chemistry, including method development, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Working knowledge and practical experience with chromatographic and bioanalytical techniques such as HPLC, LC/MS, GC, GC/MS, ICP‑MS, ELISA, and MSD.
• Proficiency with analytical data systems such as Agilent ChemStation, OpenLab, or equivalent platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to critically review and interpret analytical data with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability for data quality and timelines.
• Excellent technical writing skills for authoring SOPs, methods, validation protocols, and client reports.
• Strong client‑facing and internal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex analytical results clearly.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and perform effectively in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• High level of organizational skills and attention to detail to support regulatory compliance and audit readiness.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field; an advanced degree is preferred.
• 3–7 years of hands‑on experience in a GMP and/or GLP analytical laboratory.
• Prior experience working in a contract research organization (CRO) environment is strongly preferred.
• Sciex LC/MS/MS experience is preferred and considered a strong asset.
• Experience supporting pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical device clients.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and staying current with advancements in analytical chemistry.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, particularly in method troubleshooting and instrument performance.
• Ability to contribute to process improvements and the adoption of new technologies in the laboratory.

Work Environment

This is a fully onsite role based in Hercules, with work performed on site five days per week during normal business hours. Some weekend work may be required to meet project timelines or support critical client studies. The environment is a regulated GMP/GLP analytical laboratory that emphasizes safety, data integrity, and audit readiness. You will work with a range of advanced analytical instruments and software, including HPLC, LC/MS, GC, GC/MS, ICP‑MS, ELISA, MSD, and analytical data systems such as Agilent ChemStation and OpenLab. The culture supports energetic scientists and professionals who are passionate about using science to improve public health, collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, and deliver high‑quality results for clients in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industries.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hercules, CA.

The pay range for this position is $30.28 - $43.26/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Hercules,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $30 - $43