Senior Scientist I/II, Analytical Chemistry

We are seeking a highly experienced analytical chemist to lead unknown compound identification and Extractables & Leachables (E&L) studies for pharmaceutical and medical device products. This role requires deep expertise in LC/MS, method development, and structural elucidation.

Responsibilities

• Identify unknown compounds using LC/MS, LC-MS/MS, and LC-HRMS.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot analytical methods.
• Analyze and interpret complex mass spectrometry data.
• Support pharmaceutical and medical device E&L studies.
• Prepare technical reports, protocols, and regulatory documentation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to solve analytical challenges.
• Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance.
• Evaluate and implement new analytical technologies and methodologies.

• Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry or related field.
• 5 years of experience in LC/MS and unknown compound identification.
• Strong expertise with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS).
• Experience in pharmaceutical, medical device, or CRO environments.
• Strong background in organic chemistry and structural elucidation.
• Knowledge of ESI and MS/MS techniques.
• Familiarity with GLP, GMP, ISO -18, USP , and USP .
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

• Experience with Sciex OS, Thermo Orbitrap/Chromeleon, or GC/MS is a plus.

This position requires onsite presence five days a week in Hercules. The work environment is dynamic, providing opportunities to solve complex analytical challenges in the life sciences industry.

Job Type & Location

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

The pay range for this position is $55.28 - $64.90/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 Jul 21, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $55 - $65