Analytical Chemist

Analytical Chemist

Pharmaceuticals Environment | Hands-On Instrumentation | Offers Benefits

Job Description

The Chemist supports scientists in an analytical and research laboratory focused on pharmaceutical research and development. This role performs a variety of analytical tests, including HPLC and dissolution testing, as well as solid-state and chemical characterization techniques. The position offers the opportunity to work on changing project priorities, gain broad hands-on experience, and be cross-trained across multiple aspects of formulation development in a collaborative, start-up style environment.

Responsibilities

• Support scientists by performing analytical testing in a pharmaceutical research and development laboratory.

• Perform HPLC analyses to support method development, routine testing, and characterization activities.

• Conduct dissolution testing and other analytical methods to evaluate prototype formulations and finished products.

• Provide testing support for the manufacture of prototype formulations across all stages of development.

• Perform physical testing of products, including disintegration, particle size analysis, and related measurements.

• Conduct solid-state characterization using techniques such as microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).

• Execute chemical characterization methods, including assay, dissolution, and Karl Fischer (KF) moisture analysis.

• Perform sample preparation for analytical and solid-state testing in compliance with laboratory procedures.

• Provide hands-on support for formulation development activities, including process optimization and scale-up.

• Adapt to changing project priorities and shift focus quickly to support evolving development needs.

• Maintain accurate laboratory records, documenting methods, observations, and results in a clear and organized manner.

• Follow laboratory safety practices and standard operating procedures while handling chemicals, instruments, and equipment.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in Chemistry or a closely related scientific discipline.

• At least 6 months of post-college laboratory industry experience.

• Ability to perform HPLC testing or strong foundational knowledge of HPLC principles.

Work Environment

This position is based in an analytical and research laboratory with a strong emphasis on hands-on pharmaceutical R&D. The environment is collaborative and fast-paced, with a tight-knit team that values open communication and shared problem solving. Work involves routine use of laboratory instrumentation such as HPLC systems and equipment for dissolution, solid-state characterization, and physical testing. Team members may shift between different projects as priorities change, providing broad exposure to multiple aspects of formulation development. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and lab coats, is required when working in the laboratory. The culture reflects a start-up mindset, where individuals can make a visible impact and directly contribute to the organizations success.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of New Brighton, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $26.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of New Brighton, MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 26, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in New Brighton,MN.

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 click.appcast.io 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.