HPLC Laboratory Chemist - Cannabis Testing Laboratory

Location: East Hanover, New Jersey
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: Starting at $25/hour (commensurate with experience)
Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday | Day Shift

Position Overview

US Cannalytics is seeking a highly motivated HPLC Laboratory Chemist to support analytical testing operations within New Jersey's regulated medical and recreational cannabis market. This full-time, in-laboratory position operates within a fast-paced, production-driven, and highly regulated testing environment.

The HPLC Laboratory Chemist is responsible for analytical testing, instrumentation performance, quality control, data integrity, and regulatory compliance in accordance with New Jersey cannabis regulations and ISO/IEC 17025 quality standards.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical chemistry knowledge, hands-on HPLC instrumentation experience, and the ability to maintain accuracy, efficiency, and compliance under high-throughput laboratory conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing of cannabis flower, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, vape products, and infused products using HPLC instrumentation
• Conduct sample preparation across multiple cannabis matrices, including preparation of reagents, standards, and quality control materials
• Analyze and interpret chromatographic data for potency, cannabinoid profiles, and related analytical parameters
• Maintain compliance with New Jersey cannabis regulations, ISO/IEC 17025 standards, laboratory SOPs, and quality systems
• Perform routine calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance of HPLC instrumentation
• Execute daily instrument performance checks and quality control procedures
• Review, verify, and document analytical results within LIMS while maintaining data integrity and accurate recordkeeping
• Maintain compliant chain-of-custody documentation and cannabis inventory tracking
• Assist with method validation, method verification, and proficiency testing programs
• Support internal audits, quality assurance initiatives, and continuous improvement projects
• Coordinate with external vendors for instrument service and maintenance support
• Maintain laboratory inventory for reagents, standards, solvents, and consumables
• Assist with sample intake, accessioning, and non-analytical laboratory workflows as needed
• Provide workflow guidance and technical support to Laboratory Technicians and Assistants
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and laboratory efficiency enhancements

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to meet NJ state cannabis employment requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, or related natural science
• Minimum of 2 years of full-time, post-academic laboratory experience with HPLC instrumentation
• Strong analytical chemistry and data analysis skills
• Experience with HPLC maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting
• Demonstrated ability to follow SOPs and work effectively within a regulated laboratory environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy in a high-throughput setting
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and laboratory documentation systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within cannabis, pharmaceutical, environmental, food, or hemp testing laboratories
• Experience with HPLC, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or ICP-MS instrumentation
• Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and quality systems
• Experience with method development and validation
• Experience with Agilent or Shimadzu instrumentation platforms
• Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Leadership, peer training, or supervisory experience

Work Environment

• Fast-paced, production-driven analytical laboratory environment
• Continuous video and audio surveillance in accordance with state cannabis regulations
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coat, gloves, and eye protection
• Exposure to chemicals, solvents, fumes, airborne particles, and laboratory equipment
• Moderate to loud noise levels may be present

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, sit, and move throughout the workday
• Frequent use of hands for laboratory procedures and computer data entry
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 40 pounds
• Strong visual acuity, including close vision and color differentiation
• Ability to maintain concentration and consistently produce accurate work

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off