PLS Scientist

Shift: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

Location:

Oakdale, MN. Salary: $60,000 - $70,000 per year. This is a full-time, onsite Raw Materials Scientist 1 position.

The Raw Materials Chemist is responsible for performing and overseeing analytical testing of raw materials in a fast‑paced CRO environment. This role supports GMP/GLP‑aligned laboratory operations through accurate analysis, documentation, and review of chemical data using intermediate to advanced knowledge of analytical chemistry, instrumentation, and raw‑material specifications. The Chemist provides technical guidance, contributes to process improvements, and demonstrates leadership potential within the analytical team.

• Perform intermediate to advanced analytical testing of raw materials using techniques such as HPLC, GC, FTIR, UV‑Vis, titration, wet chemistry, and other instrumentation per SOPs, compendial methods, and client requirements.
• Review, interpret, and document analytical data with a high level of accuracy; ensure compliance with internal quality standards and regulatory expectations.
• Conduct peer review of data, worksheets, and reports; support junior staff by providing feedback and technical clarification.
• Oversee or assist with the completion, review, and processing of laboratory documentation, including raw data, COAs, logbooks, and electronic records.
• Provide analytical insight and recommendations to management and project teams regarding raw‑material testing, method execution, and laboratory best practices.
• Support client communication by helping address technical questions, participating in investigations, and contributing to corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) when needed.
• Evaluate laboratory operations, testing trends, and quality metrics to identify opportunities for improvement; present findings and recommendations to leadership.
• Ensure accuracy and reliability of testing through routine equipment calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance; collaborate with team members to resolve discrepancies.
• Participate in cross‑functional or chemistry‑focused projects, including method transfers, validations, and process improvements; contribute to planning, timelines, and resource needs.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant laboratory environment; adhere to all safety policies, chemical hygiene requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
• Interpret and apply laboratory policies, SOPs, and relevant regulations (USP, EP, ISO, GMP/GLP) with minimal guidance.
• Contribute to a collaborative, efficient work environment by actively participating in team initiatives and supporting departmental goals.
• Demonstrate professional, courteous behavior when interacting with clients, colleagues, and leadership; support a positive and productive workplace culture.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field.
• Experience:
  
  Four (4) to five (5) years of analytical chemistry experience in a CRO, pharmaceutical, or regulated laboratory environment, preferably with raw‑materials testing responsibilities.
• Experience with Empower Software for HPLC/GC strongly preferred.
• Experience providing technical guidance, mentoring, or informal leadership is strongly preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

• Intermediate to advanced principles and practices of analytical chemistry, particularly raw‑material characterization.
• Working knowledge of GMP/GLP requirements, compendial testing (USP/EP/JP), and laboratory quality systems.
• Understanding of laboratory instrumentation, calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
• Familiarity with LIMS, chromatography data systems, and standard laboratory software.
• Knowledge of project coordination and cross‑functional collaboration in a CRO environment.
• Strong understanding of safe laboratory practices and chemical handling.

• Perform intermediate to advanced analytical testing with accuracy and efficiency.
• Review, interpret, and document complex analytical data.
• Provide technical guidance and support development of junior staff.
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines in a…