CHEMISTRY TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION

Pharmaceutical products reach patients only after passing a gauntlet of analytical verification, and the Chemistry Technician is the person running that gauntlet. Working within cGMP-regulated laboratories, this role owns the execution of release testing, stability studies, and in-process analysis against methods drawn from the USP pharmacopeia and client-specific protocols. Scope is concrete. A single out-of-specification result can delay a batch release, trigger a corrective action, and surface an audit finding, so accuracy here is a production variable, not just a quality metric. The role operates at the bench level within a QC or analytical development team, reporting to laboratory management and interfacing with regulatory and operations stakeholders.

As the Chemistry Technician, you are accountable for the accurate execution of analytical test methods, including dissolution, HPLC, GC, UV/Vis, and FTIR, that determine whether pharmaceutical products meet release and stability specifications under GMP compliance requirements. You work within a structured QC or contract testing laboratory, supporting senior chemists and management on method performance, documentation integrity, and the timely progression of batch testing schedules.

Career Impact: Hands-on proficiency in dissolution testing, USP method execution, and cGMP documentation gives you a credential set that is directly portable across pharmaceutical manufacturing, contract testing, and analytical R&D organizations.

Business Impact: Your test results govern whether a drug batch is released or held, making your accuracy a direct input into patient safety outcomes and the manufacturer's regulatory standing.

Growth Opportunity: From this position, the natural advancement path runs toward Associate Chemist, then Analytical Chemist or QC Scientist roles, with expanded ownership of method validation and CAPA investigation.

• Perform dissolution testing, UV/Vis analysis, and other pharmacopeial test methods on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to support batch release timelines.
• Execute routine and complex analytical procedures independently following written SOPs, escalating deviations or out-of-specification results to laboratory management promptly.
• Document testing activities, raw data, and corrections in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems in compliance with cGMP and data integrity requirements.
• Review standard and laboratory solution preparations, verifying accuracy before use in scheduled testing activities.
• Support extractable and leachable studies, method validations, and material characterization projects as a contributing team member under senior chemist supervision.
• Perform laboratory maintenance tasks including glassware cleaning, equipment checks, and inventory replenishment to sustain a safe and organized work environment.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory SOPs and participate in internal and external audits conducted on the laboratory floor.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related science field, or equivalent work experience.
• 1 or more years of laboratory experience, preferably within a pharmaceutical, contract testing, or regulated analytical environment.
• Familiarity with pharmacopeial test methods including USP dissolution, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, and HPLC or GC instrumentation.
• Working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practice requirements and cGMP documentation standards.
• Demonstrated ability to perform accurate quantitative measurements, dilution calculations, and data recording with minimal errors.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent testing assignments against defined timelines.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills sufficient to document findings and interact with laboratory management and cross-functional colleagues.

• Experience in pharmaceutical analytical techniques such as FTIR spectroscopy, TOC analysis, or mass spectrometry-based extractable and leachable studies.
• Exposure to Laboratory Information Management Systems or electronic document management platforms used in regulated laboratory environments.
• Prior participation in method validation studies or contribution to regulatory submission-support documentation.
• Coursework or hands-on experience with stability testing protocols and interpretation of out-of-trend data.

• Out-of-specification rate per analyst, measuring the frequency of testing errors requiring investigation or repeat analysis.
• Batch release turnaround time, reflecting how consistently testing is completed within scheduled production timelines.
• Audit observation count attributable to documentation or procedural gaps within the analyst's assigned testing area.
• Deviation and CAPA closure rate, tracking how promptly the analyst identifies, documents, and resolves atypical laboratory events.
• SOP compliance rate across notebook entries and instrument logbooks reviewed during internal quality checks.
• Typical tools: analytical instrumentation (commonly HPLC, GC, UV/Vis, FTIR, dissolution apparatus); lab data systems (commonly LIMS, Empower)

• Base Salary Range: $42,000 to $58,000 annually, depending on experience and location
• Bonus: Performance-based bonus of 3 to 7% of base salary typical
• Equity: Not standard at this level; may be available at larger biotechs
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution standard
• PTO: 15 to 20 days annually, plus federal holidays
• Common Perks: Tuition reimbursement, laboratory certification support, shift differentials for non-day shifts

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Successful completion of a background check and, where applicable, a drug screening is a condition of employment for this role given its regulated laboratory environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Chemistry Technician owns routine and specialized testing operations, including Immunoassay analyzer function, Free T4 ED, RIA tests, protein electrophoresis, and Olympus testing, while exercising judgment in evaluating and reporting results. Working within the laboratory team under guidance from senior peers, this role ensures reagent supply continuity, quality compliance, and daily reconciliation that support accurate diagnostic output.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and fill all reagents for the Immunoassay analyzer.
• Track reagent supplies and maintain inventory of lots and expiration dates of all reagents used.
• Operate and troubleshoot the Olympus AU and Immunoassay analyzer.
• Perform routine testing, including Immunoassay analyzer, Free T4 ED and other RIA tests, protein electrophoresis, and Olympus testing.
• Exercise judgment in evaluating and reporting results.
• Reconcile pending and queue lists daily.
• Ensure that manifest submissions are managed properly.
• Enter BIORAD QC into QA software when necessary.
• Run verifications and perform equipment maintenance activities.
• Calibrate and run quality control on machines and assist with daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance.
• Comply with all QA policies and protocols.
• Read, understand, and follow applicable standard operating procedures, including safety and quality procedures.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, and restock supplies as needed.
• Consult with senior peers on non-complex chemistry tasks to learn through experience.
• Participate in improving lab efficiency, quality, and cooperation.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, or a 2-, 3-, or 4-year degree in a science-related field.
• Experience setting up, running, and reading lab tests and operating lab instruments.
• General science background with at least 6 months of experience as a Chemistry Lab Aide or 1 year of veterinary technician experience.
• Knowledge of lab equipment and procedures, including medical and laboratory terminology and chemistry procedures.
• Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) as appropriate.
• Computer skills, including strong typing ability and proficient use of Microsoft Office.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Embedded within a multi-client chemistry and consultancy laboratory, the Chemistry Technician delivers a full range of qualitative and quantitative analyses using ICP, XRF, FTIR, and related instrumentation while managing calibration, chemical handling, and continuous improvement activities. Working closely with other technicians and coordinating with client sites, this role ensures that test reports, accreditation compliance, and on-site sample collection meet both customer requirements and HSE standards.

Core Functions

• Operate equipment, including ICP, salt spray, Leco C/S, XRF, and FTIR.
• Prepare reagents and standard solutions, and ensure standardization of solutions used in the laboratory.
• Perform titrations and report tank analysis as required.
• Perform sample preparation and metallurgical evaluations as required.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative laboratory tests and analysis of substances per standard methods.
• Generate test reports for clients, including data entry and quality assurance.
• Handle and store all chemicals per the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
• Work to all HSE standards.
• Ensure equipment is calibrated and verify calibration before use.
• Manage the calibration of glassware and instruments.
• Perform general maintenance, cleaning, and checking of equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable quality standards, customer requirements, and accreditation requirements.
• Drive to customer sites to collect samples and conduct testing in their laboratory regularly.
• Monitor consumable supplies and maintain inventory at recommended levels.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S of the area.
• Coordinate with other technicians to carry out work per the planning schedule.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or degree in chemistry with at least 2 years of experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge and experience in the safe operation of testing equipment in an independent, chemistry, or consultancy laboratory.
• Experience in interpreting testing procedures and requirements.
• Experience with material and process selection.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook and Excel, and general computer use.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English, including reading, writing, and speaking.
• Strong mathematical skills.
• Ability to remain calm when faced with mounting pressure related to deadlines and multiple priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills that foster open communication built on mutual respect.
• Strong organizational, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills, including decision-making and adaptability.
• Availability and flexibility to represent the organization at a broad range of events and projects with customers.

Reporting to the floor lead, the Chemistry Technician I manufactures and analytically verifies inorganic products using ICP-MS, ICP-OES, IC, and related instrumentation to meet customer delivery dates for Waters-ERA. Partnering with the Inorganic manufacturing team, Operations, Quality, EH&S, and the Planner, this role drives continuous improvement and peer review of manufacturing data to sustain product quality and production schedule compliance.

Primary Duties

• Manufacture, analytically verify, and produce inorganic products to meet customer delivery dates.
• Support the Environmental Team with process improvements, technical issues, and documentation.
• Collaborate with the Planner and Environmental Team to meet the production schedule.
• Participate in continuous improvement and develop solutions to problems while increasing efficiency.
• Conduct peer review of manufacturing and analytical verification data.
• Ensure that all products and data generated meet quality assurance requirements.
• Participate in improving processes and updating SOP documents.
• Participate in external audits conducted on the lab floor.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field.
• Experience with ICP-MS, ICP-OES, IC, Hg flow injection analysis, UV-Spec, or ISE meter/probe instrumentation preferred.
• 1 year or more of environmental laboratory, analytical instrumentation, or similar work experience preferred.
• Experience with benchtop wet chemistry analysis using EPA and Standard Methods.
• Experience with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
• Ability to demonstrate sound judgment and utilize scientific and statistical methods for troubleshooting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to review data.

Sitting at the intersection of pharmaceutical quality and advanced analytical chemistry, the Chemistry Technician performs and troubleshoots EP, BP, and in-house methods using HPLC, GC, FTIR spectroscopy, and TOC analysis for release testing of in-process, finished product, and stability samples. Operating across GMP, ISO, and environmental health and safety frameworks, this role supports departmental goals by revising laboratory documents, reviewing analytical data, and enabling compliant product release.

Duties

• Revise laboratory documents, including standard operating procedures and chemical specifications.
• Suggest and implement continuous laboratory improvements.
• Perform and troubleshoot EP, BP, and in-house methods using wet chemistry and advanced analytical techniques and equipment, including HPLC, GC, FTIR spectroscopy, and TOC analysis, for release testing of in-process, finished product, and stability samples.
• Review analytical data for applicable test articles and follow up on corrective actions.
• Provide timely completion of duties to meet departmental and company goals.
• Ensure awareness of and compliance with GMP, ISO, and environmental health and safety procedures within the respective area.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry preferred.
• Minimum Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry or a related science.
• 3–6 years of experience in GMP pharmaceutical chemical analysis.
• Expert knowledge of pharmaceutical analytical techniques and test methods.
• Experience with HPLC, GC, FT/IR, UV/VIS, and specialty equipment operation and technical troubleshooting.
• Experience with LIMS, Documentum, and Empower is an asset.
• Computer literacy with the ability to use Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.
• Ability to work and problem-solve both independently and as part of a team.

A key member of the on-site chemical management team, the Chemistry Technician leads chemical receiving, tracking, inventory replenishment, and order fulfillment across multiple stocking locations within a production and clean room environment. Collaborating across VWR and customer systems, this role trains new Chemical Technicians, manages regulatory safety information, and delivers chemical orders to point-of-use locations to maintain uninterrupted production operations.

Functions

• Identify and enter chemicals into the site container tracking system.
• Return to the stockroom any chemical so that the product is visible by others who may request and use it.
• Determine proper chemical segregation and place item(s) in the appropriate location based on hazard classification.
• Create and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Identify and enter chemicals into the site container tracking system.
• Return chemicals to the stockroom so that the product is visible to others who may request and use it.
• Rename and barcode chemicals returned to the stockroom, including identifying and placing items into inventory.
• Determine proper chemical segregation and place items in the appropriate location based on hazard classification.
• Locate, dispense, and prepare chemicals for shipment or delivery promptly, and create and adhere to standard operating procedures.
• Enter orders based on production requirements into the applicable inventory system after checking for accuracy.
• Manage chemical inventory at multiple stocking locations through approved minimum and maximum levels.
• Deliver and pick up orders from bulk chemical stockrooms.
• Maintain regulatory lists and safety information in applicable systems for all tracked chemicals.
• Interface with customers on chemical orders and production requirements.
• Handle hazardous materials in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Manage customer service functions, including order entry, reporting, product cross-referencing and conversions, maintaining metrics, and cost avoidance.

Experience & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 2-year technical degree or related experience preferred.
• 2–5 years of equivalent experience in material handling, inventory replenishment, or customer service.
• Solid understanding and experience in shipping, inventory, or purchasing.
• Understanding of chemical structures and compounds management, hazard classification, and chemical segregation techniques.
• Knowledge of spill containment training, IATA, DOT, IMDG, and OSHA Right to Know is an asset.
• Strong time management, communication, and organizational skills.

Reliable elemental analysis and solvent testing at both laboratory and field cleaning sites depend on the Chemistry Technician, who conducts ICP, atomic absorption, and titrimetric analyses while supporting field operations with a mobile lab. Based within a service line operating under minimal supervision, this role prepares samples, completes reports, trains other technicians, and performs preventative maintenance on equipment to keep industrial cleaning operations running safely and on schedule.

Accountabilities

• Prepare samples for testing by accurately weighing and recording sample weights and measuring small component surface areas using calipers.
• Conduct solubility testing of scales and deposits using common lab apparatus and solvent systems, including acids, alkalis, chelants, and miscellaneous organic solvents.
• Solubilize samples with acid using a hot plate and reflux condenser.
• Prepare accurate dilutions of solubilized samples for elemental analysis by ICP or atomic absorption.
• Prepare final reports and forward results to the submitting branch or client as required.
• Utilize common lab instruments, including conductivity meters, pH meters, and EMF meters, and conduct titrimetric analysis for solvent strength using standardized procedures.
• Collect samples, calibrate AA, prepare accurate sample dilutions, and install necessary sample lines.
• Utilize a computer to accurately record and compile data collected during the course of the cleaning for submittal to the client.
• Perform job setup tasks, including reading work orders, collecting all basic equipment, and inspecting equipment and the general work area before starting any job.
• Correct deficiencies that may cause accidents, injuries, lost productivity, or harm to equipment.

Technical Qualifications

• 3 years of related experience.
• Operational knowledge of tools, equipment, and tasks in job processes, service line equipment, and terminology.
• Familiarity with wet chemical titration apparatus and an understanding of acid-base and redox titration methodology.
• Familiarity with ICP instrumentation and dilution techniques necessary to conduct metals analysis.
• Familiarity with standard laboratory apparatus, including pH meters, conductivity meters, EMF meters, hot plates, muffle furnaces, and HACH spectrophotometers.

As the Chemistry Technician, this role performs routine and complex analyses within a cGMP contract testing and analytical R&D laboratory, with a primary focus on extractables and leachables studies using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry instrumentation. The Trace Organics work team relies on this work to support mass spectrometry-based method validations, leachable correlation studies, and timely regulatory-compliant reporting that helps pharmaceutical clients bring safe and effective products to market.

Activities

• Perform routine analyses following a written method or protocol independently.
• Perform complex analyses under supervision.
• Contribute to extractable studies, extractable-leachable correlation studies, mass spectrometry-based method validations, leachable studies, and material characterization studies as part of a team.
• Process mass spectrometry data for extractable and leachable studies under supervision.
• Author reports for routine analyses independently and contribute to reports for complex studies under supervision.
• Follow current procedures and regulations as directed by senior staff and management.
• Write procedures, observations, and results in notebooks.
• Prepare standards, solutions, and samples using a variety of techniques.
• Perform automated and manual sample extractions as required.
• Measure, collect, and record test data in accordance with written procedures.
• Perform basic calculations and tasks essential for laboratory maintenance, operation, and quality assurance.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues on laboratory techniques, sample preparation, instrumentation, data analysis, documentation, and safety.
• Ensure compliance with company and client SOPs, protocols, safety policies, methods, and government rules and regulations.
• Use computer systems and software programs to acquire and document results.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor of Science or higher in Chemistry or a related field.
• Plus 1 year or more of work experience.
• Experience in a research and development environment preferred.
• Basic understanding of mass spectrometry.
• Hands-on work experience with HPLC or GC.
• Hands-on work experience with LC-MS and/or GC-MS instrumentation preferred.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.

Chemistry Technician operates batch centrifugation and multiple filtration systems in a pilot and R&D environment, executing planned experiments and Solution-QC testing on in-process batches and final solution lots while working daily with carbon nanotubes, acids, and bases. The work directly supports the integrity of pilot batch data and laboratory supply continuity through accurate documentation, inventory management, and equipment assembly and maintenance.

Operational Focus

• Operate batch centrifugation equipment and perform cleaning of centrifuge equipment.
• Operate multiple filtration systems, perform troubleshooting, and clean the systems.
• Assemble and disassemble filtration systems, reactors, condensers, and associated parts to maintain equipment in a pilot and R&D environment.
• Help write and develop process SOPs.
• Test various wet chemistry properties, including pH, optical density, and conductivity.
• Record and document data into a database system and maintain a lab notebook.
• Perform Solution-QC testing on in-process pilot batches and final solution lots following an SOP, including pH, optical density, adhesion testing, TGA analysis, coating thin films, and particle counts.
• Work with carbon nanotubes, acids, bases, and other chemicals in a laboratory environment on a daily basis.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Associate degree in science or 2–5 years of equivalent work experience.
• Experience working in a clean room environment.
• Knowledge of particle and micro-contamination control, process control, and basic chemistry.
• Experience with microfiltration and centrifugation preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and entering data into a database.
• Flexibility to work second shift as well as occasional first shift, third shift, and weekend shifts as required by production demands.

The Chemistry Technician produces accurate testing results across raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and stability samples, including dissolution testing and operation of UV/Vis and dissolution instrumentation, to support department testing timelines. Working within a pharmaceutical laboratory team with minimal supervision, this role documents results per SOPs, communicates out-of-specification findings to management, and maintains USP pharmacopeia awareness to enable compliant product quality decisions.

Key Deliverables

• Perform testing on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and stability samples to support department testing timelines.
• Perform dissolution testing, including tank setup, sample introduction, sample pulls, analysis on instrumentation, and cleanup.
• Demonstrate an understanding of applicable test methods and a familiarity with testing requirements.
• Communicate atypical and out-of-specification results to laboratory management.
• Clean laboratory glassware, equipment, and common work areas, and maintain a safe laboratory environment.
• Communicate appropriately with peers and others within the organization.
• Participate in departmental meetings as necessary.
• Review standard and laboratory solution preparations.
• Identify and communicate any errors found in documentation and testing.
• Maintain awareness of the USP and other pharmacopeias.
• Operate intermediate-level instrumentation, including dissolution and UV/Vis, and related software with support.

Professional Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related science field.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Awareness of HPLC, UV, FTIR, and GC as appropriate.
• Experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, and other computer software systems.
• Ability to work and problem-solve both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to review data.

Embedded within a core clinical laboratory team, the Chemistry Technician develops patient specimen workflows encompassing venipuncture collection, LIS data entry, referral packaging, and document management while maintaining safety policy compliance. Working closely with allied health professionals and laboratory management, this role supports the teaching of clinical students and delegates responsibilities across safety and administrative functions to sustain accurate and compliant laboratory service delivery.

Areas of Ownership

• Receive patients for testing and collect blood samples by venipuncture and skin puncture.
• Receive and prepare specimens for analysis.
• Receive and prepare samples for packaging and forward to referral laboratories for analysis.
• Utilize the laboratory information system and related databases to enter patient data and obtain laboratory results.
• Provide customer service by answering telephones and redirecting calls.
• Assist in the storage, rotation, and disposal of laboratory samples according to retention guidelines.
• Assist in the filing, storage, and disposal of documents and reports.
• Maintain a safe work environment and ensure that staff is in compliance with corporate and laboratory-related safety policies and procedures.
• Participate in and delegate the responsibility of teaching allied health professionals from various associated educational programs.

Education & Experience

• Completion of an approved laboratory technician course.
• OSMT Certification required, or willingness to obtain within 6 months of employment.
• Previous experience within a core laboratory environment.
• Computer skills, including previous experience in the use of a laboratory information system (LIS).
• Clerical skills, including data entry, labelling, filing, and related duties.
• Demonstrated leadership, teaching, organizational, and human relations skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication and public relations skills.