Chemist

Job Title: Chemist Job Description
The Chemist supports scientists in an analytical and research laboratory focused on pharmaceutical research and development. This role performs a variety of analytical tests, including HPLC and dissolution testing, as well as solid-state and chemical characterization techniques. The position offers the opportunity to work on changing project priorities, gain broad hands-on experience, and be cross-trained across multiple aspects of formulation development in a collaborative, start-up style environment.
Responsibilities
- Support scientists and senior scientists by performing analytical testing in a pharmaceutical research and development laboratory.
- Perform HPLC analyses to support method development, routine testing, and characterization activities.
- Conduct dissolution testing and other analytical methods to evaluate prototype formulations and finished products.
- Provide testing support for the manufacture of prototype formulations across all stages of development.
- Perform physical testing of products, including disintegration, particle size analysis, and related measurements.
- Conduct solid-state characterization using techniques such as microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
- Execute chemical characterization methods, including assay, dissolution, and Karl Fischer (KF) moisture analysis.
- Perform sample preparation for analytical and solid-state testing in compliance with laboratory procedures.
- Provide hands-on support for formulation development activities, including process optimization and scale-up.
- Adapt to changing project priorities and shift focus quickly to support evolving development needs.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, documenting methods, observations, and results in a clear and organized manner.
- Follow laboratory safety practices and standard operating procedures while handling chemicals, instruments, and equipment.
Essential Skills
- Bachelors degree in Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline.
- At least 6 months of post-college laboratory industry experience.
- Hands-on experience performing analytical chemistry techniques in a laboratory setting.
- Ability to perform HPLC testing or strong foundational knowledge of HPLC principles.
- Experience with dissolution or dissolution testing in a laboratory environment.
- Basic understanding of pharmaceutical or related industry laboratory practices.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established test methods and procedures.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a smaller, collaborative team.
- Willingness to adapt quickly to changing project priorities and tasks.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- 612 months of direct, hands-on experience with HPLC methods and instrumentation.
- Prior experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory environment.
- Familiarity with solid-state characterization techniques such as microscopy, XRD, DSC, and TGA.
- Experience with physical testing methods, including disintegration and particle size analysis.
- Experience with chemical characterization methods, including assay, dissolution, and Karl Fischer (KF) analysis.
- Interest in working in a tight-knit, start-up style team where individual contributions have a visible impact.
- Motivation to contribute directly to formulation development, process optimization, and scale-up activities.
Work Environment
This position is based in an analytical and research laboratory with a strong emphasis on hands-on pharmaceutical R&D. The environment is collaborative and fast-paced, with a tight-knit team that values open communication and shared problem solving. Work involves routine use of laboratory instrumentation such as HPLC systems and equipment for dissolution, solid-state characterization, and physical testing. Team members may shift between different projects as priorities change, providing broad exposure to multiple aspects of formulation development. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and lab coats, is required when working in the laboratory. The culture reflects a start-up mindset, where individuals can make a visible impact and directly contribute to the organizations success.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $26.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 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.