Research and Development Chemist

Job Title: Research and Development Chemist
 Location: Torrance, CA
Position Type: Full-Time
Work Environment: Laboratory setting. Must be willing to handle bio-hazardous materials.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lab Manager 
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
 

 Role Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically proficient Research & Development Chemist to join our laboratory team in Torrance, CA. This full-time, on-site role focuses on assisting with experiments to develop new chemical and diagnostic products. The ideal candidate blends strong wet-lab skills with an analytical mindset to help drive product innovation while ensuring strict adherence to quality control and regulatory standards (CLIA/CAP).

Key Responsibilities

• Product Development & Testing: Assist in experiments to develop new immunological assays. Perform specimen handling, processing, and examination of immune system responses according to SOPs.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Maintain rigorous quality control measures, document procedures and calibrations, and ensure all work meets regulatory and safety standards.
• Technical Reporting: Analyze experimental data and prepare detailed technical reports for cross-functional teams.
• Inventory & Lab Management: Prepare reagents and solutions, manage inventory of critical antigens, and maintain specialized/automated laboratory equipment.
• Innovation & Troubleshooting: Identify system deviations, troubleshoot equipment or formulation issues to ensure opportunities for continuous improvement, and monitor for product performance.
• Safety: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment by following strict biohazard and chemical safety protocols.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of laboratory experience, with a background in chemical R&D, clinical diagnostics, or immunology research.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in liquid handling, micro-pipetting, and manual dexterity.
  • Solid analytical skills with experience in data interpretation (MS Excel; Python is a plus).
  • Knowledge of testing application methods and automated lab equipment.
• Additional Skills (Plus):
  • Previous experience with microarray printing and/or liquid handling robotics.
  • Background in the healthcare or diagnostics industry.
• Core Competencies: High attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and the ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with CLIA/CAP requirements and laboratory health and safety protocols.

Physical Requirements

• High level of hand-eye coordination for fine motor tasks and precise liquid handling.
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods and wear full PPE.
• Ability to distinguish color-coded results and lift/move supplies up to 25 lbs.