Associate Principal Scientist, Engineering

Position Description

The Chemical Engineering Research & Development department (CERD), part of the Process Research and Development organization, seeks highly motivated individuals to work in a fast‑paced environment that provides a high degree of technical responsibility. This role involves hands‑on process development and scale‑up work performed at scales ranging from laboratory to commercial manufacturing. Under scientific and administrative direction, the engineer conducts independent research, conceiving, designing, planning, and implementing advanced experiments aimed at achieving research goals related to process development, technology development, and production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API).

The candidate may also manage process development and/or manufacturing activities at external suppliers. The engineer will exhibit a mindset of safety and quality compliance, following current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), participating in risk assessments, deviation investigations, and Good Documentation Practices (GDPs). Innovation, creativity, and self‑initiative, along with the ability to plan and organize activities, are expected. Successful candidates will communicate regularly, clearly, and with confidence as they discuss technical problems, support pilot plant operations, and interface with cross‑functional colleagues/customers.

This role requires approximately 10‑15% travel.

• BS and/or MS in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering (or comparable) plus at least 8 years of relevant work experience in process development.
• PhD in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering (or comparable) with at least 3 years of relevant work experience post‑PhD defense.

• Experience performing lab‑based research/process development in a chemical engineering‑related area.
• Experience with process scale‑up and/or technology transfer from laboratory to pilot plant or production scale.
• Highly effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Good organizational, interpersonal, writing, and time‑management skills.

• Direct experience with pharmaceutical drug substance development.
• Familiarity with cGMP and GDP during pharmaceutical development and production.
• Experience applying statistical experimental design (e.g., Design of Experiments) and/or process modeling.
• Experience with chemical engineering‑related technology development.

Required skills:

Chemical Engineering, Communication, Data Analysis, Decision Making, Detail‑Oriented, Manufacturing Scale‑Up, Mentorship, Pharmaceutical Development.

Preferred skills: [Same as above, without duplication].

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The salary range for this role is $ – $.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, insurance for employee and family, retirement benefits (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at

Travel Requirements: 10%. Relocation:
Domestic/International. Visa Sponsorship:
Yes. Valid Driving License:
No. Hazardous Material(s): N/A.

US and Puerto Rico residents only.