Research Chemist, Intermediate

Alberta Veterinary Laboratories Ltd; Calgary; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health benefits

Performance reviews

Job summary

Alberta Veterinary Laboratories Ltd seeks a Research Chemist to join a GMP-regulated environment in SE Calgary. The role emphasizes analytical method development, data review, and collaboration with Quality, Production, Regulatory, and Product Management to meet organizational objectives.

You will develop and validate methods, oversee lab instrumentation, and contribute to investigations, CAPAs, and regulatory documentation. On-site, 40 hours/week, with safety and quality as core priorities.

Qualifications

• Minimum BSc in Chemistry or Biochemistry or related coursework completed.
• Engineering-related degree also considered.
• Minimum 3 years' GMP/ISO lab experience in a pharmaceutical or related environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for materials and products.
• Perform routine and non-routine analyses using validated methods.
• Operate and maintain HPLC, GC, IC, and other instruments.
• Review data and ensure accuracy; prepare COAs and reports.
• Support method transfers and technology transfer activities.
• Participate in deviations, CAPAs, and quality system activities.

Skills

Analytical testing

Method development

Laboratory data management

Problem solving

Multi-project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry/Biochemistry

Chemical Engineering (related area)

GMP/ISO lab experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Laboratory data management systems

Job description

KEY SKILLS

This role works collaboratively with cross-functional teams including Quality, Production, Regulatory, and Product Management to ensure research activities align with organizational objectives, regulatory requirements, and quality standards. The Research Chemist plays a key role in developing and evaluating products, processes, and laboratory methods within a regulated environment.

DAY-TO-DAY

Responsibilities

Analytical Testing & Method Development

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for testing raw materials, in-process materials, finished products, stability samples, and validation batches
• Perform routine and non-routine chemical analyses using established and validated methods
• Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain HPLC, GC, IC, and other laboratory instrumentation
• Evaluate methods for accuracy, precision, specificity, linearity, and robustness; recommend improvements
• Support method transfers between laboratories and manufacturing, and participate in scale-up/technology transfer activities

Data Review & Documentation

• Review electronic raw data generated by laboratory instruments, including R&D experiments
• Interpret and analyze laboratory data, ensuring accuracy and scientific integrity
• Complete written reports, certificates of analysis, and technical/analytical summaries
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and records in accordance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
• Author, review, and sign off on SOPs, work instructions, validation protocols, and reports
• Perform data entry, analysis, and trending
• Investigations & Quality Systems
• Recognize and investigate out-of-specification (OOS) and unexpected results; lead lab investigations and recommend corrective actions
• Initiate and/or participate in deviation investigations and CAPA activities
• Initiate and follow through on Change Controls and CAPAs as required
• Support internal and external audits
• Maintain data integrity and laboratory compliance

R&D & Product Support

• Support formulation development, product improvement, and compatibility/stability/performance studies
• Collaborate with R&D scientists on new product development
• Assist with technical problem-solving during product commercialization

Equipment & Facility Support

• Coordinate preventative maintenance and servicing of lab equipment
• Ensure instruments remain qualified and calibrated
• Report equipment issues promptly and assist with corrective actions
• Collaborate with QC to perform technology transfers

Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure all lab activities comply with GMP, GLP, Health Canada regulations, applicable veterinary pharmaceutical requirements, company QMS, and safety procedures
• Assist in preparing regulatory documentation as required

Other

• Perform other duties as assigned

Disclaimer : This position summary should not be considered exhaustive. Other duties may be assigned as required. We are looking for individuals who are excited about a fast paced, high volume workload and flexibility and willingness to step outside of their role to support their teammates. These job duties may evolve as the candidate grows in this role.

IDEAL FIT

Education & Experience

• Minimum Bachelor of Science with Major in Chemistry or Biochemistry or Reviewed to have Completed Critical Courses in Chemistry/Biochemistry
• Degree in Chemical Engineering or related Area in Engineering
• Minimum 3 years' experience in pharmaceutical or related laboratory environment (GMP or ISO compliant

Skills and Attributes

• Strong knowledge of laboratory practices, analytical techniques, and chemical safety procedures
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and laboratory data management systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check
• Medical Clearance
• WHMIS

WORKING CONDITIONS

• On-site in SE Calgary
• GMP compliant facility
• 40 hours/week (Monday - Friday)
• Occasional interaction with chemicals and hazardous materials

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

We are committed to keeping our team healthy and motivated, so they can do the best work of their lives. We’ve built a company where people love to come to work, and we think you will too! Team members benefits include:

• Paid time off (including vacation, sick and personal days)
• Life insurance and comprehensive healthcare benefits
• Performance reviews and ongoing conversations plus annual compensation reviews