Sr. Chemist

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd; San Fernando (CA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd is seeking a Sr. Chemist in San Fernando, California. The role involves intermediate and advanced testing of raw materials and products to ensure quality and compliance. Responsibilities include leading investigations, performing various analytical techniques, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, related laboratory experience, and strong skills in chemistry practices, along with proficiency in using laboratory equipment.

Qualifications

• Requires a four-year college degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field.
• Three to five years related laboratory experience.
• Strong project, organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform testing on raw materials and products in support of QC release.
• Lead investigations for Out-Of-Specification results as assigned.
• Collaborate with peers across multiple departments.

Skills

Knowledge of chemistry practice and theory

Hands-on proficiency with analytical methods

Knowledge of FDA and ICH guidelines

Proficiency in Word and Excel

Strong project management skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related science

Tools

HPLC

GC

ICP

UV

FTIR

Job description

Sr. Chemist Role at Pharmavite: The Sr. Chemist performs intermediate and advanced level testing and analysis of raw material, intermediate and bulk products to determine identity, purity, quality, strength and composition.

Compensation

National Target Base Pay Range: $63,000.00 - $105,000.00. For candidates in California and the New York metro, the Target Base Pay Range is $71,000.00 - $118,000.00.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic, intermediate and advanced testing on raw materials, bulk and finished products in support of QC release, investigations, method development/improvement, stability or development studies.
• Perform physical testing techniques such as density, specific gravity, LOD, particle size, tablet or fill weight, and similar.
• Perform chemical testing techniques such as titration, FT-NIR, Moisture, dissolution, UV and similar.
• Perform instrumental analytical testing techniques such as GC, HPLC, UPLC, ICP-OES, ICP-MS and similar.
• Review and verify lab documentation for completeness prior to reporting.
• Achieve mastery of one or more testing areas, serving as trainer for new and developing analysts.
• Lead Out-Of-Specification (OOS) or other investigations as assigned.
• Troubleshoot lab instrument and method issues, performing repairs or obtaining appropriate outside service.
• Review, update and develop job aids, procedures or methods as assigned.
• Perform method verification and validation studies in support of method transfer.
• Collaborate with peers at other sites, or groups as needed (QA, QC, AS, R&D, Tech Ops).
• Update existing methods to meet compendia requirements or incorporate new technology where appropriate.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Requires a four‑year college or university degree or its equivalent in Chemistry, Biology or related science. Advanced degree a plus.
• Certification: None.
• Experience:
  • Three to five years related laboratory experience in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • A competent knowledge of chemistry practice and theory including methods validation and use of laboratory equipment such as HPLC, GC, ICP, UV, FTIR and computer control dissolution tester.
  • Some knowledge of conventional laboratory characterization techniques such as LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR.
  • Hands‑on proficiency with analytical methods and instrumentation.
  • Ability to communicate, written and verbal, and lead effectively in a cross‑functional team environment.
  • Some knowledge of applicable FDA and ICH guidelines.
  • Familiarity with USP and other compendia a plus.
  • Strong project, organizational and time management skills.
  • Computer skills such as Word and Excel are required.
  • Knowledge of PLM and LIMS will be preferred.
• Physical Requirements: Continuous exercise of manipulative skills. Close attention to detail.
• Safety: The incumbent must be able to perform this job safely in accordance with standard operating procedures and good manufacturing practices, without endangering the health or safety of self or others.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Pharmavite is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit employment discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, and any other basis protected by state and federal law. Pharmavite recruits, hires, employs, trains, promotes, and compensates individuals solely based on job‑related qualifications and abilities. Pharmavite also provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities or based on a sincerely held religious belief, in accordance with applicable laws.