QC Scientist I

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: QC Compendial Scientist I

Job Description

The QC Compendial Scientist I supports Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) manufacturing by performing compendial and analytical testing for commercial product release and stability programs. You will work in a cGMP-regulated laboratory, using a variety of analytical tools for large molecule analysis to ensure high-quality data, timely delivery of results, and compliance with established procedures. This entry-level role offers extensive training, ongoing learning, and the opportunity to contribute to new concepts, techniques, and standards in a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform compendial testing for large molecule analysis, including pH, UV, osmolality, and related methods, on in-process, drug substance (DS) release, and stability samples to support GMP manufacturing and stability programs.
• Operate and maintain analytical instruments such as spectrometers, plate readers, SoloVPE, and other minor laboratory equipment to execute routine and specialized test methods.
• Conduct GMP testing in an analytical laboratory using HPLC and UPLC test methods, including reverse phase, size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), concentration assays, cation-exchange chromatography (CEX), and related techniques.
• Perform colorimetric and other biochemical assays, such as Picogreen and Bradford assays, as required to support analytical testing of large molecules.
• Execute qualitative pipetting and, when applicable, multi-channel and 96-well plate pipetting techniques to ensure accurate and precise sample preparation.
• Compile and analyze data generated from testing, document test procedures accurately, and prepare clear, concise reports in accordance with laboratory and quality requirements.
• Review laboratory data packets as assigned, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and compliance with applicable procedures and regulatory expectations.
• Author and perform laboratory investigations as assigned, including root cause analysis and documentation of findings in alignment with quality standards.
• Recognize and promptly report invalid results, laboratory incidents, out-of-specification (OOS), and out-of-trend (OOT) results to laboratory management, and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of new concepts, techniques, and standards within the QC laboratory to improve efficiency, robustness, and quality of testing.
• Collaborate closely with team members, quality assurance, and data reviewers to ensure alignment on testing priorities, data review, and resolution of issues.
• Perform all duties in compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and safety guidelines to maintain a compliant and safe laboratory environment.
• Participate in routine laboratory activities, including safety inspections, housekeeping, and ordering supplies to support smooth and efficient laboratory operations.
• Engage in training on all assays during the initial months and apply learned techniques to independently perform assigned tests once qualified.
• Volunteer and sign up for periodic specialized tests that occur approximately every six weeks, adjusting work schedules as needed to support these time-sensitive activities.

Essential Skills

• Ability to perform compendial testing, including pH, UV, and osmolality measurements, in a GMP-regulated laboratory environment.
• Hands-on experience or training with spectrometers and plate readers for analytical testing.
• Proficiency in qualitative pipetting techniques with strong attention to accuracy and precision.
• Foundational understanding of biochemistry and wet chemistry principles relevant to large molecule analysis.
• Ability to follow cGMP requirements and Standard Operating Procedures in a laboratory setting.
• Strong organizational and planning skills to manage multiple tests and timelines effectively.
• High attention to detail in executing test methods, recording data, and reviewing documentation.
• Positive, collaborative demeanor with the ability to work effectively within a small team.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, schedules, and testing needs within the laboratory.
• Bachelor’s degree in chemical pharmaceutical sciences, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, or a related field (required).
• Biochemistry degree (preferred).
• 0–1 years of experience in a GMP-regulated environment (entry-level candidates are encouraged).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with compendial methods such as pH, osmolality, and UV testing beyond academic training.
• Familiarity with colorimetric assays, including Picogreen and Bradford, for large molecule analysis.
• Experience with qPCR techniques in a laboratory environment.
• Exposure to or experience with 96-well plate formats and multi-channel pipetting.
• Experience with SoloVPE or A280-based methods for protein concentration determination.
• Experience in quality control, bioassays, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and wet chemistry techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to compile data, document test procedures, and prepare technical reports.
• Experience contributing to or supporting laboratory investigations and data review activities.
• Interest in continuous learning and contributing to the development of new laboratory concepts, techniques, and standards.
• Motivation to grow into a long-term, full-time role based on performance and demonstrated capability.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, onsite laboratory role in a cGMP-regulated quality control environment. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, approximately 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with flexibility in start time to accommodate personal and operational needs. During the first 3 to 6 months, you will receive structured training on all relevant assays and instruments, working closely with a team of about six colleagues in a collaborative and supportive setting. The role includes periodic participation in specialized tests that occur roughly every six weeks; these may be scheduled in the evening, late evening, or on weekends, and work hours will be adjusted accordingly for these 2–3 hour testing windows. The laboratory uses a range of analytical technologies, including spectrometers, plate readers, SoloVPE, HPLC, UPLC, and various biochemical assay platforms, within a safety-focused, process-driven environment that emphasizes compliance, continuous improvement, and professional development.

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

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Berkeley,MO.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 26, 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 ziprecruiter.com 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.