Analytical Chemist

Job Description Analytical Chemist – OTC & Personal Care Department: Research & Development Location: Ottawa, IL 61350 Schedule: Full-Time | First Shift Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated Analytical Chemist to join our Research & Development team. This role is responsible for developing, validating, and executing analytical methods that support the development, manufacture, and regulatory compliance of cosmetic, personal care, and OTC drug products. The successful candidate will play a critical role in method development, raw material characterization, API analysis, competitive product evaluations, and reverse engineering activities. Working closely with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, and Manufacturing teams, this position will help transform innovative concepts into commercially successful products through sound analytical science. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on scientist seeking broad exposure to analytical chemistry, formulation development, OTC products, and product commercialization. Key Responsibilities Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for OTC drug products, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), raw materials, and finished goods. Perform analytical testing using a variety of instrumentation, including: UHPLC Gas Chromatography (GC) FTIR UV-Vis Spectroscopy Standard wet chemistry techniques Design and execute method validation protocols in accordance with applicable regulatory and industry requirements. Analyze and interpret analytical data, investigate anomalies, and prepare technical reports. Conduct reverse engineering studies on competitive cosmetic, personal care, and OTC products. Characterize raw materials and finished products to support formulation development and manufacturing activities. Partner with formulation chemists to troubleshoot technical challenges and optimize product performance. Support product stability programs and analytical investigations. Assist with specification development, test method transfers, and laboratory process improvements. Maintain accurate laboratory records, notebooks, protocols, and reports. Stay informed on emerging analytical technologies, instrumentation, and industry trends that may benefit the organization and its customers. Ensure compliance with laboratory safety requirements, SOPs, cGMP expectations, and company policies. Uphold company values through professionalism, collaboration, and respect. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline. 1–3 years of laboratory experience in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical, personal care, cosmetic, OTC, or related industries. Hands‑on experience with UHPLC, HPLC, and/or Gas Chromatography systems. Experience developing, optimizing, or validating analytical methods. Strong understanding of analytical data interpretation and scientific problem‑solving. Ability to work independently while managing multiple projects and changing priorities. Strong technical writing and documentation skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting OTC drug products or regulated consumer products. Familiarity with ICH, USP, FDA, or cGMP requirements. Experience with method validation, stability testing, and specification development. Knowledge of active ingredient assay methods and impurity testing. Experience performing competitive product benchmarking or reverse engineering studies. Key Competencies Analytical thinking and scientific curiosity Method development and troubleshootingData interpretation and technical judgment Project management and prioritization Technical writing and documentation Cross‑functional collaboration Attention to detail and accuracy Continuous improvement mindset Why Join Us? Work on a diverse portfolio of cosmetic, personal care, and OTC products. Gain hands‑on experience with advanced analytical instrumentation. Participate in product development from concept through commercialization. Collaborate directly with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, and Manufacturing teams. Expand your expertise in analytical #J-18808-Ljbffr