Position Summary
The Principal Chemist is a senior lab position providing advanced technical expertise for routine and non-routine analytical and physical tests on raw materials and OTC drug / medical device / cosmetic personal care products. Tasks also include research, development, and implementation of new analytical test methods and performing method validation & verification studies.
This position requires an experienced professional with advanced knowledge of Analytical equipment usage, strong multitasking abilities, a fast-paced work ethic, excellent problem-solving skills, and a positive attitude while working in a team-oriented cGMP environment.
This position requires the ability to carry out tests and complete tasks with a high degree of accuracy, an advanced level of judgement, and independent thinking. Serves as a technical resource and mentor to less experienced Chemists and Technicians.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Perform testing using analytical techniques, instruments, and methodology including but not limited to HPLC, ICP-OES, and FTIR analysis, Viscosity, pH, Specific Gravity, and other laboratory analysis Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and calibrate analytical equipment and related software including HPLC and ICP-OES systems.Prepare standards, reagents, and samples. Review and interpret analytical data to ensure compliance with specifications and regulatory requirements. Prepare reports and preform trend analysis as needed. Maintain accurate and complete laboratory documentation and records in Goodier documentation systems including, but not limited to, electronic lab notebooks, LIMS, and manual systems in compliance with cGMP, FDA, and company requirements. Develop, optimize, and validate methods, facilitate effective method transfers, and design & perform method verification studies. Lead / support Out of Specification (OOS) investigations, deviations, CAPAs, and laboratory investigation processes.Create, revise, and review lab methods, SOPs, specifications, technical documents, and data reports. Provide subject matter expert support to troubleshoot instrumentation, method, and testing issues. Serve as a technical authority on analytical chemistry matters, providing clear, concise data and interpretation related to non-compliant, atypical, or out-of-specification lab results to operational teams and senior leadership.Support / coordinate lab equipment maintenance, preventative maintenance, and calibration activities to ensure proper function and compliance.Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliance with safety procedures.Order and maintain lab supplies, standards, and inventory. Train and mentor junior chemists and technicians.May perform laboratory technician and/or Supervisory functions as needed.Collaborate effectively with Production, Quality Assurance, R&D, Supply Chain, and other departments. Perform additional duties as assigned.Qualification Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry or related scientific field required.Minimum of 8 years of analytical laboratory or directly related experience in the personal care, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or other cGMP-regulated industry.Advanced level knowledge and relevant working experience with analytical instrumentation and equipment including HPLC, ICP, FTIR, Water Activity Meter, Viscometer, pH meter, and other lab instrumentation and equipment. Familiarity with GC / GC-MS techniques and instrumentation is a plus. Accurately prepare samples by applying wet chemistry techniques, operate advanced analytical chemistry equipment, and perform complex testing under general guidance. Experience with USP methods strongly preferred. Experience with Empower, Qtegra, or similar laboratory software systems preferred.Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills are required.Exceptional attention to detail and ability to work with a very high degree of accuracy and integrity.Must be self-motivated and have the ability to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment handling multiple projects and priorities simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and data integrity. Excellent multitasking and time-management skills to prioritize workload effectively.Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to work well in a team-oriented environment. Willingness to guide and train junior colleagues.Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to clearly communicate analytical findings to cross-functional teams and leadership that may not have chemistry expertise.Able to perform mathematical calculations. Thorough knowledge of cGMP, GLP, and GDP requirements.Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams), electronic laboratory notebooks, and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). Ability to work on site at Goodier Labs.Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods of time.Ability to lift laboratory materials and supplies up to 25 lbs.Ability to work safely with chemicals and laboratory equipment following all safety procedures. Read LessTEMPORARY POSITION
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Collect, organize, and prepare bulk, finished good, and/or raw material test samples, retain samples, standards, and reagents following established procedures and requirements.Perform basic physical & identity testing on Bulk and Finished Good products and/or Raw Materials, including, but not limited to, FTIR identity, pH, viscosity, specific gravity, appearance, color, texture, and odor evaluation.Effectively use and perform appropriate calibrations / performance checks on lab equipment (FTIR, Viscometer, pH Meter, Water Activity Meter, Melting Point apparatus, SPG cups, etc.)Aseptically collect purified water samples for microbiological testing.Prepare analytical test samples as needed to support Chemists.Record and interpret test & evaluation results against defined material specifications to ensure traceability and data integrity. Review results for accuracy and completeness. File lab documentation and assist with record organization.Prepare chain of custody and shipping documentation for outsource laboratory samples.Support inventory organization and laboratory supply stocking. Clean glassware and maintain lab cleanliness.Perform additional duties as assigned.Qualification Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent with a required minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience in cosmetic, personal care, pharmaceutical, or other cGMP related environment OR Associate’s Degree with specialized coursework in a scientific discipline with 1 year of relevant laboratory experience OR Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related scientific field.Successful completion of specialized testing for color vision required.Self-directed, able to manage time effectively and prioritize workload, work in a fast-paced environment, and capable of operating independently under general supervision.Positive attitude and willingness to learn.Strong attention to detail and works with a high degree of integrity.Highly effective organizational and multitasking abilities.Strong verbal and written communication skills.Ability to work effectively in a team environment.Effective use of Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Word, Excel) and able to navigate computer software systems such as electronic lab notebooks, LIMS (Laboratory Data Management Software), and Quality Management System (QMS) Software.Physical Requirements
Ability to discern all colors and to detect slight variations in color and odor.Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time.Ability to work safely around chemicals and laboratory equipment using appropriate PPE and following all safety procedures.Ability to work flexible hours on-site, including overtime and weekends as needed. Read Less