Analytical Development Scientist
Job Description
This role focuses on performing analytical testing to support the development, validation, and control of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products in a regulated laboratory environment. The Analytical Development Scientist executes and optimizes analytical methods, maintains complex instrumentation, and ensures data integrity and compliance with GMP and applicable regulatory requirements. The position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to chemical development initiatives while working closely with cross-functional teams and external laboratories. Relocation to Iowa will be required!
Responsibilities
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Perform analytical testing to support the development, validation, and control of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
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Execute analytical assays using both established and newly developed methodologies.
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Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory instrumentation, including HPLC, GC, GC/MS, LC/MS, FTIR, titrators, and particle size analyzers.
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Set up, optimize, and refine analytical methods for compound identification, purity determination, and potency analysis.
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Document all experimental work accurately and comprehensively in laboratory notebooks and formal reports.
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Ensure strict compliance with GMP standards, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and applicable regulatory requirements, including those related to controlled substances (e.g., DEA).
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Support the transfer of analytical methods to Quality Control and Process Support teams by preparing documentation, training materials, and technical guidance.
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Coordinate external analytical testing with third-party laboratories, including sample submission and data review.
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Generate, interpret, and analyze analytical data to support reference material qualification and other development activities.
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Collaborate with internal teams to support Chemical Development initiatives and contribute to cross-functional project goals.
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Perform additional laboratory duties and support tasks as assigned to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
Essential Skills
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Hands-on experience operating and maintaining HPLC systems for analytical testing.
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Proficiency with gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry techniques, including GC/MS and LC/MS.
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Experience using FTIR, titrators, and particle size analyzers in a laboratory setting.
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Strong experience in wet chemistry techniques and analytical method execution.
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Practical knowledge of GMP requirements and working in a regulated laboratory environment.
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Ability to follow and develop SOPs and adhere to laboratory best practices.
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Solid foundation in chemistry, including analytical and organic chemistry principles.
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Experience in laboratory-based development activities, particularly related to APIs or chemical development.
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Master's Degree in Chemistry with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, OR Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry with 6+ years of relevant industry experience.
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Strong documentation skills with the ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and reports.
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Ability to analyze and interpret analytical data to support development and qualification activities.
Qualifications
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Master's Degree in Chemistry with 2+ years of relevant industry experience, OR Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry with 6+ years of relevant industry experience.
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Experience supporting analytical method transfer to Quality Control or Process Support teams.
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Familiarity with DEA or other controlled substance regulatory requirements in a laboratory setting.
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Experience in API development or related pharmaceutical or chemical development activities.
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Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
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Interest in pursuing either a traditional scientist-level career progression or a technical specialist track.
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Comfort working with multiple analytical platforms and adapting to new technologies and methods.
Work Environment
The position is based in a regulated laboratory environment with a standard Monday through Friday day shift schedule, totaling a 40-hour work week. Some overtime may be required to meet project timelines or support critical testing. The scientist will work as part of a larger team of approximately 25 colleagues, with a smaller sub-team of about 8–10 people for day-to-day collaboration. The laboratory uses advanced analytical technologies, including HPLC, GC, GC/MS, LC/MS, FTIR, titrators, and particle size analyzers, within a GMP-compliant setting. New team members receive comprehensive onboarding and mentorship to become proficient in the laboratory systems and regulatory expectations. The organization supports career growth through both traditional scientist-level progression and a technical track, with ongoing feedback and annual performance reviews to guide professional development.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Charles City, IA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $43.00 - $50.90/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 Charles City,IA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 23, 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 [email protected] 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.
