Senior Analytical Development Scientist (Pharmaceuticals)

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA is seeking a Senior Analytical Development Scientist to lead method development, validation, and transfer for pharmaceutical products.

You will apply HPLC, GC, MS and spectroscopy, ensuring ICH, GMP and GLP compliance, and mentor junior scientists while coordinating cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
• 5–7 years' experience in analytical method development and validation in pharma.
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, MS, spectroscopy).
• Strong understanding of ICH guidelines, GMP/GLP and regulatory requirements for analytical testing.
• Ability to design and execute complex experiments and interpret results.
• Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and data analysis skills.
• Excellent communication and scientific writing abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• On-site work in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate analytical methods per ICH guidelines.
• Transfer methods to QC labs and support method transfers.
• Troubleshoot analytical issues in development, validation, or routine testing.
• Characterize physicochemical properties of drug substances/products.
• Support manufacturing process development with analytical insights.
• Prepare validation protocols and reports; maintain documentation.
• Stay updated with advancements in analytical techniques.
• Collaborate with formulation, process, and regulatory teams.
• Mentor junior scientists and ensure GMP/GLP compliance.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

HPLC

GC

Mass spectrometry

Spectroscopy

ICH guidelines

GMP/GLP

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Communication

Project management

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Analytical Chemistry/Pharmaceutical Sciences

Tools

HPLC

GC

Mass spectrometry

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical innovator, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Analytical Development Scientist to join their R&D team in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA. This key position involves the development, validation, and implementation of robust analytical methods essential for the characterization and quality control of pharmaceutical products and raw materials. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in analytical chemistry, a strong understanding of pharmaceutical quality systems, and a proven ability to lead complex analytical projects. This role is crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of our client's products, operating from their advanced facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and validate analytical methods (e.g., HPLC, GC, UV-Vis, KF, dissolution) for API and finished product testing according to ICH guidelines.
• Perform method transfer to Quality Control (QC) laboratories.
• Troubleshoot and resolve analytical issues encountered during method development, validation, or routine testing.
• Characterize the physicochemical properties of drug substances and drug products.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of manufacturing processes through analytical insights.
• Prepare detailed analytical development reports, validation protocols, and validation reports.
• Stay current with advancements in analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Collaborate with formulation scientists, process chemists, and regulatory affairs teams.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, GLP, and other relevant regulatory standards.
• Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in analytical method development and validation within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with a variety of analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, Mass Spectrometry, spectroscopy, etc.).
• Thorough understanding of ICH guidelines, GMP, and regulatory requirements for analytical testing.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex experiments and interpret results.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Must be able to work full‑time on‑site in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical insurance, and retirement planning. We are dedicated to supporting the professional growth of our employees through continuous training, conference attendance, and opportunities for career advancement within our organization. Our client provides a stimulating and collaborative work environment, emphasizing innovation and a healthy work-life balance in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA. This position offers the chance to make a significant contribution to the development of new and improved pharmaceutical products.