QC Scientist (HPLC Chemist)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: QC Scientist I Job Description

The QC Scientist I performs a wide range of analytical testing using HPLC and UPLC in a GMP-regulated laboratory environment, supporting in-process and release testing, stability studies, process validation, and analytical method validation and transfer. This role ensures accurate, compliant generation of data for drug substance and drug product, contributes to method establishment and qualification, and supports both routine and non-routine testing activities. The position offers the opportunity to grow into a full-time role while working in a culture that emphasizes continuous learning, professional development, and meaningful contributions to healthcare.

Responsibilities

• Perform HPLC and UPLC testing for in-process drug substance release, drug product release, drug substance stability, drug product stability, process validation, analytical method validation and transfer, method establishment and qualification, and various non-routine samples.
• Conduct GMP-compliant testing in an analytical laboratory environment using HPLC and UPLC test methods, including Reverse Phase, SEC, titer/concentration, and CEX assays.
• Accurately record, analyze, and report test results in accordance with established laboratory procedures and quality systems.
• Recognize out-of-specification and out-of-trend results, promptly report them to laboratory management, and recommend appropriate solutions or follow-up actions.
• Maintain, operate, and troubleshoot analytical instruments and associated laboratory equipment to ensure reliable performance and minimal downtime.
• Perform method validation and qualification testing as required to support new or existing analytical methods.
• Author and review standard operating procedures, test methods, forms, and related documentation within the electronic document management system (eDMS).
• Demonstrate proper laboratory safety and housekeeping practices, including participation in weekly 5S laboratory audits and monthly laboratory inspections, ensuring all activities meet EHS requirements.
• Perform all duties in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and applicable safety guidelines.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external customers to maintain clear and open communication when raising, resolving, and following up on issues.
• Partner with QC leads, project managers, and clients to support the overall health and success of client programs.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement in laboratory practices, documentation quality, and analytical workflows.

Essential Skills

• 0–2 years of hands-on HPLC and UPLC experience in a quality, analytical, pharmaceutical, or closely related industry environment.
• Experience performing HPLC/UPLC assays, with familiarity in methods such as SEC, CEX, glycans, and peptide mapping considered a strong advantage.
• Working knowledge of GMP regulations and experience operating within a cGMP manufacturing or quality control environment.
• Foundational understanding of scientific principles underlying a wide range of analytical techniques in analytical chemistry and wet chemistry.
• Ability to follow and apply Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety guidelines in daily work.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documenting, analyzing, and reporting laboratory data.
• Ability to identify out-of-specification and out-of-trend results and communicate findings clearly to laboratory management.
• Basic troubleshooting skills for analytical instruments and laboratory equipment.
• Effective communication skills for collaborating with QC leads, project managers, and external partners.
• Ability to work independently at the bench while adhering to established quality and safety standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Prior experience with EMPOWER chromatography data software is preferred but not required.
• Experience with a variety of HPLC/UPLC assays, including SEC, CEX, glycans, and peptide mapping, is considered a plus.
• Background in quality control, analytical chemistry, and wet chemistry in a regulated environment.
• Strong working knowledge of scientific principles for a broad range of analytical techniques is strongly preferred.
• Interest in professional development and continuous learning within a high-performing scientific organization.
• Ability to contribute to and thrive in a culture that values innovation, R&D investment, and meaningful impact on global health.

Work Environment

This is a bench-focused laboratory role in an analytical QC environment, working Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The position involves routine and non-routine testing using HPLC and UPLC systems and related analytical equipment, with a strong emphasis on GMP, GLP, and safety compliance. The laboratory operates under structured procedures and quality systems, including use of an electronic document management system for SOPs and test methods. The culture emphasizes continuous growth, learning, and empowerment, providing resources and opportunities for professional development while contributing to impactful work in the life sciences sector. Appropriate laboratory attire and adherence to safety and housekeeping standards are expected at all times.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of St. Louis, MO.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $31.00/hr.

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 St. Louis,MO.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 24, 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 View email address on us.fitly.work 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.