Scientist I

Job Title: Scientist I

Job Description

This role offers an opportunity for an early-career analytical scientist to perform high-quality laboratory testing with a strong focus on HPLC in a regulated environment. The Scientist I generates precise, reliable, and reproducible analytical data under the guidance of scientific staff, supports method execution and validation, and contributes to the smooth operation of the laboratory while adhering to cGMP and corporate standards.

Responsibilities

• Generate and analyze precise, reliable, and reproducible analytical data in a timely manner under the direction of a scientific leader.
• Demonstrate strong experimental precision and apply a general understanding of analytical chemistry in day-to-day laboratory work.
• Follow established experimental protocols completely and consistently, assessing results with supervision as needed.
• Recognize, document, and report experimental variances, anomalies, or deviations in a clear and timely manner.
• Learn and effectively implement new experimental protocols, analytical methods, and laboratory techniques as they are introduced.
• Perform HPLC-based testing and validation activities in a GMP environment, with HPLC work comprising the majority of daily responsibilities.
• Conduct wet chemistry and related analytical techniques, including methods such as Karl Fischer (KF), as required to support testing and analysis.
• Maintain laboratory equipment in good working order, including routine checks, basic troubleshooting, and coordination of service when appropriate.
• Optimize laboratory operations by using time, supplies, and reagents efficiently while maintaining high-quality standards.
• Understand and adhere to corporate standards for code of conduct, laboratory safety, and appropriate handling of compounds and materials.
• Comply with GxP and cGMP requirements, including accurate documentation, data integrity practices, and adherence to current regulatory expectations.
• Communicate results, issues, and observations clearly through written documentation and oral updates to supervisors and interdisciplinary team members.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists and engineers from different disciplines to support project goals and resolve technical issues.
• Participate in interviews or discussions related to laboratory practices and continuous improvement initiatives when requested.

Essential Skills

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of HPLC sufficient to perform routine and advanced analytical testing, with HPLC work representing approximately 95% of daily activities.
• Hands-on experience with wet chemistry techniques, including methods such as Karl Fischer (KF), to support analytical testing and validation.
• Understanding of cGMP principles and current regulatory requirements applicable to analytical laboratory operations.
• Experience performing testing and validation activities in a GMP environment with a focus on analytical data generation and analysis.
• Strong written communication skills to document experiments, results, and deviations clearly and accurately.
• Strong oral communication skills to present findings and interact effectively with supervisors, scientists, and engineers.
• Ability to follow established experimental protocols precisely and consistently while maintaining attention to detail.
• Capability to recognize and report experimental variances and anomalies in a structured and timely manner.
• Ability to learn and implement new experimental protocols and techniques under guidance.
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or an equivalent education in a closely related scientific discipline.
• Focus and interest in analytical chemistry, particularly HPLC-based analysis, as a primary area of responsibility.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemistry or a related field is welcome and will be considered, even though a bachelor's degree is the primary target profile.
• Experience with mass spectrometry or related analytical instrumentation is beneficial but not required.
• Previous experience in a laboratory environment performing analytical testing and method execution.
• Familiarity with GxP practices beyond cGMP, including general data integrity and documentation expectations.
• Ability to interact effectively with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers, contributing to collaborative problem-solving.
• Comfort working under the direction of scientific leaders while progressively building independence.
• Candidates with 10-15 or more years of experience may be considered overqualified for this specific level of role.

Work Environment

This position is 100% onsite in a laboratory-based setting and is offered as a 1-year contract with a single opening. The work environment centers on an analytical chemistry laboratory where HPLC is the primary technology, accounting for the majority of daily tasks, complemented by wet chemistry techniques such as Karl Fischer and other analytical methods. The role operates within a cGMP and broader GxP framework, with strong emphasis on regulatory compliance, data integrity, and safe handling of compounds. Laboratory operations involve routine use and maintenance of analytical instruments, careful management of reagents and supplies, and adherence to established safety procedures and corporate codes of conduct. The selection process typically includes a video interview conducted via an online meeting platform, followed by an onsite interview, providing candidates with the opportunity to see the laboratory environment and meet future colleagues.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of North Chicago, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $41.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in North Chicago,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.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.