Quality Control Chemist

Job Title: Quality Control Chemist

Job Description

The Quality Control Chemist performs analytical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure they meet established quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role supports process validation and stability programs, maintains accurate laboratory records, and helps ensure timely product release in a regulated manufacturing environment. The chemist works closely with other analysts and technicians in a small, collaborative team, with strong opportunities for growth and exposure to both chemistry and microbiology.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products using techniques such as HPLC, FTIR, wet chemistry, and other analytical methods.
• Support process validation and stability programs by performing required sample analysis and documenting results accurately.
• Gather samples each morning, prioritize testing activities, and complete testing and data review before close of business to support on-time product release.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate laboratory instrumentation for routine testing in accordance with established procedures.
• Prepare laboratory solutions, reagents, and standards following established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure accurate, complete, and compliant recordkeeping, including analytical data, equipment logbooks, and laboratory documentation.
• Oversee the storage, tracking, and qualification of reference standards and retained samples to ensure integrity and traceability.
• Review and verify data generated by other QC chemists and laboratory technicians for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with procedures.
• Run analyses and tests on assigned samples, review results with laboratory technicians, and resolve discrepancies as needed.
• Write clear, concise analytical reports and submit results to the appropriate supervisor or designee in a timely manner.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels of chemicals, reagents, consumables, and samples to support uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Wash glassware, maintain laboratory cleanliness, and ensure that work areas, equipment, and storage areas remain organized and inspection-ready.
• Check, maintain, and document the status of reference standards and ensure they are used and stored in compliance with applicable guidelines.
• Follow all safety protocols, laboratory procedures, and company policies to ensure safe handling of materials, equipment, and waste.
• Maintain compliance with GMP, GLP, GDP, and applicable compendial requirements such as USP and AOAC methods.
• Collaborate with a small team of analysts and technicians, sharing knowledge and supporting continuous improvement of laboratory practices.
• Complete additional QC laboratory tasks and responsibilities as needed to support department and organizational goals.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or biochemistry; open to other related sciences where strong analytical chemistry skills are demonstrated.
• Minimum of 1 year of quality control laboratory experience; 3 years of experience is strongly preferred.
• Hands-on HPLC experience, either from academic laboratory work or professional industry experience.
• Experience working in a manufacturing, pharmaceutical, or nutraceutical environment.
• Demonstrated experience in analytical chemistry, including wet chemistry techniques.
• Experience working in a GMP laboratory environment, with practical understanding of GMP, GLP, and GDP requirements.
• Knowledge of relevant compendial methods and standards, including USP and AOAC.
• Ability to perform and interpret analytical testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Ability to follow and apply standard operating procedures (SOPs) consistently and accurately.
• Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy in data recording, documentation, and report writing.
• Ability to prioritize multiple testing assignments and meet deadlines for product release.
• Effective communication skills to review results with technicians and report findings to supervisors.
• Ability to work safely with chemicals and laboratory equipment while adhering to established safety protocols.
• Physical ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stoop for periods of five hours or more and to read and examine objects for extended periods.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or biochemistry is preferred; other scientific degrees with strong chemistry focus are considered.
• Experience in microbiology or interest in gaining exposure to microbiology testing within a QC environment.
• Familiarity with FTIR, wet chemistry methods, and other instrumental techniques used in quality control laboratories.
• Experience working with or understanding nutraceutica…