Senior Analytical Chemist

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Analytical Chemist for our Paarl lab to lead analytical method development, validation, and regulatory-ready documentation. You will work with HPLC, GC, UV-Vis, FTIR and KF titration, mentor juniors, and ensure data integrity for product development in a fast-paced pharma environment.

The role emphasizes collaboration with formulation scientists and QA, adherence to ICH/GMP, and continuous capability building in a hybrid work setting in the Western Cape region.

Qualifications

• MSc or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in analytical chemistry within pharma/biotech.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement analytical methods for materials and products.
• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing per GMP.
• Characterize impurities and degradation products in formulations.
• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation with calibration and performance checks.
• Troubleshoot method issues and instrument malfunctions.
• Analyze and interpret complex data and prepare reports.
• Contribute data for regulatory submissions and documentation.
• Collaborate with formulation scientists, process chemists, and QA teams.
• Mentor junior chemists and guide analytical initiatives.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and best practices in analytical chemistry.

Education

MSc or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or closely related field

Tools

HPLC

GC

UV-Vis

FTIR

KF titration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking pharmaceutical development company, is seeking a highly competent Senior Analytical Chemist to join their esteemed laboratory in Paarl, Western Cape. This role is crucial for ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of our pharmaceutical products through rigorous analytical testing and method development. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing advanced analytical procedures, validating methods, and interpreting complex data to support product development and regulatory submissions. This is a prime opportunity to contribute to critical projects within the beautiful Paarl region, collaborating with a dedicated team of scientists and quality professionals. We are committed to upholding the highest standards in pharmaceutical analysis and seeking an expert to lead our analytical initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement analytical methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished drug products using techniques such as HPLC, GC, UV-Vis, FTIR, and KF titration.
• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing according to established protocols and regulatory guidelines (e.g., GMP).
• Characterize impurities and degradation products in pharmaceutical formulations.
• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation, ensuring proper calibration and performance.
• Troubleshoot analytical method issues and instrument malfunctions.
• Analyze and interpret complex analytical data, preparing detailed reports and summaries.
• Contribute to regulatory submissions by providing robust analytical data and method documentation.
• Collaborate with formulation scientists, process chemists, and quality assurance teams.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements and industry best practices in analytical chemistry.
• Mentor junior analytical chemists and provide technical guidance as needed within the Paarl facility.

Requirements

• MSc or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in analytical chemistry within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Proven expertise in method development and validation for HPLC and GC.
• Hands-on experience with a broad range of analytical instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical quality control principles and regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH, GMP).
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in data management software and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working in the Paarl area or Western Cape is an advantage.
• A commitment to scientific integrity and quality assurance.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance-based bonuses. The Hybrid work model allows for a flexible balance between on-site laboratory work and remote responsibilities. This position is based at our modern facility in Paarl, providing a pleasant working environment. Employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities and support for professional development, including conference attendance. The company fosters a collaborative and quality-driven culture, dedicated to the development of safe and effective pharmaceuticals. This is a great opportunity for career advancement within a respected organization.