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Analytical Method Development Scientist Jobs in California

Scientist, Method Automation

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

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Analytical Development, Method Development and Automation Reporting to the Principal Scientist, Method Development and Automation Team Job Overview: We are seeking a motivated Scientist, Method ...

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Analytical Method Development Scientist information

What does an analytical method development scientist do?

An Analytical Method Development Scientist is responsible for designing, developing, and validating analytical methods used to test and analyze chemical compounds, pharmaceuticals, or other materials. They ensure that the methods are accurate, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards. This role involves working with advanced laboratory instruments, troubleshooting analytical issues, and documenting procedures for use in research, quality control, or manufacturing environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an analytical method development scientist?

To thrive as an Analytical Method Development Scientist, a strong background in chemistry, analytical techniques, and method validation—often supported by a relevant degree in chemistry or pharmaceutical sciences—is essential. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as HPLC, GC, MS, and software for data analysis, as well as knowledge of regulatory guidelines like ICH and FDA, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure reliable method development, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary scientific teams.

What are the typical challenges faced by an analytical method development scientist when transferring methods to quality control or manufacturing teams?

One common challenge for Analytical Method Development Scientists is ensuring that newly developed analytical methods are robust and reproducible when transferred to quality control or manufacturing teams. Differences in equipment, sample matrices, or operator technique can impact results, so thorough method validation and clear documentation are essential. Scientists often work closely with cross-functional teams to provide training, troubleshoot issues, and adapt protocols as needed. Successfully managing these transitions helps maintain product quality and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Analytical Method Development Scientist vs Analytical Chemist?

AspectAnalytical Method Development ScientistAnalytical Chemist
Primary FocusDeveloping and validating new analytical methodsPerforming routine analysis and testing
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departmentsQuality control labs, manufacturing facilities
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field; experience in method developmentBachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field; experience in analytical testing

While both roles involve analytical testing, the Analytical Method Development Scientist primarily focuses on creating and validating new analytical methods, often in research settings. In contrast, the Analytical Chemist typically performs routine testing to ensure product quality in manufacturing or quality control labs.

What are popular job titles related to Analytical Method Development Scientist jobs in California? For Analytical Method Development Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Analytical Method Development Scientist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Analytical Method Development Scientist jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Analytical Method Development Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Scientist I, Analytical Development

Vaxcyte

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Join our Mission to Protect Humankind!
Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company engineering high-fidelity vaccines to protect humankind from the consequences of bacterial diseases, which have serious and costly health consequences when left unchecked. Working to eradicate or treat bacterial infections such as invasive pneumococcal disease, Group A Strep, and Shigella is just the beginning. Our path to success is clear and well-defined, and Vaxcyte is set up to go the distance.
WHAT we do is every bit as important as HOW we do it! Our work together is guided by four enduring core values:
*RETHINK CONVENTION: We bring creative and intellectual diversity to every facet of the work we do in order to innovate and re-innovate the way vaccines are delivered.
*AIM HIGH: We embody our collectively audacious goal to courageously make the most complex biologics ever attempted to protect humankind.
*LEAD WITH HEART: Everyone leads at Vaxcyte with a kindness-first, inclusive approach to collaboration and vigorous debate that advances our business objectives.
*MODEL EXCELLENCE: The magnitude of our challenge requires our shared commitment to demonstrating integrity, accountability, equality and clarity across communications and decision making.
Summary:
Vaxcyte has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and talented individual to join our Analytical Development team. The Scientist I, Analytical Development, is responsible for executing analytical testing and contributing to analytical method development activities for biologics/vaccine development programs. This role performs routine and non-routine analytical assays using modern analytical techniques, supports method optimization and troubleshooting efforts, and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives with moderate supervision while partnering effectively with cross-functional teams. The position requires demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience, strong technical execution, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently plan and execute assigned work, analyze and interpret data, and escalate and/or drive investigations as needed. This role authors and maintains clear technical documentation, including method protocols, method development summaries, and SOPs, and communicates experimental results and conclusions to internal stakeholders.
Essential Functions:
Method Development & Troubleshooting
  • Contribute to method development, optimization, and qualification/validation readiness activities.
  • Design and execute experiments to evaluate critical method parameters and define appropriate system suitability and control strategies.
  • Troubleshoot assay and instrument performance issues using a structured approach; interpret data to identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
  • Support and/or execute method transfer activities, including protocol preparation, training support, execution at receiving labs, and resolution of transfer issues.
  • Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports; ensure clear documentation of experimental rationale, results, and conclusions for internal review and stakeholder communication.

Team Collaboration
  • Partner effectively with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs.
  • Communicate experimental progress and data interpretation to direct team members and project leads; flag emerging risks for senior review.
  • Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, and scientifically rigorous lab culture, model good documentation practices and data integrity expectations.
  • May assist in orienting new team members to assays and workflows under the direction of senior staff (role does not carry any formal supervisory accountability).

Analytical Testing & Data Generation
  • Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods (e.g., HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical/biophysical techniques).
  • Execute assays in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards (GLP/GMP as applicable); identify and troubleshoot common issues.
  • Perform data processing and interpretation; summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
  • Maintain accurate, timely documentation in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems; contribute to clear technical communications to project and cross-functional stakeholders.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation
  • Support routine instrument maintenance scheduling and vendor coordination as directed.
  • Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling/storage practices.
  • Manage inventory of reagents, standards, and consumables; initiate procurement, track critical supplies, and support forecasting to avoid stockouts.

Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices.
  • Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to hazardous material handling procedures.
  • Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.

Requirements:
PhD, MS or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline. PhD with 0-2 years; MS with 5+ years; BS with 8+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
  • Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as liquid chromatography (H/UPLC) and/or mass spectrometry (LC-MS), CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR.
  • Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry/biochemistry principles with demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
  • Proven ability to independently troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision making.
  • Proficient with analytical software, data processing workflows, and statistical tools.
  • Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail consistently produces high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
  • Plan and prioritize work, coordinate with management and the lab team, and support meeting tight timelines.
  • Clear and effective written and verbal communication; able to summarize complex data, present recommendations, and collaborate across functions.
  • Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
  • Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Reports to: Senior Scientist, Analytical Development
Location: San Carlos, CA
Work Arrangement (may be adjusted based on business needs, job responsibilities, or changes to company policy): Onsite (5 days per week onsite)
Compensation: The compensation package will be competitive and includes comprehensive benefits and an equity component.
Salary Range: $129,000 - $151,000
Equal Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
Recruitment Fraud Notice
Please be aware of fraud or scams from individuals, organizations and/or internet sites claiming to represent Vaxcyte in recruitment activities. Vaxcyte has an established recruitment process for all positions prior to issuing an offer for employment and we will never extend unsolicited employment offers or ask candidates to provide financial or sensitive personal information as part of the application process. All legitimate communication from Vaxcyte will come from an official @vaxcyte.com email address. Qualified and interested candidates should apply to current openings at vaxcyte.com/careers.

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About Vaxcyte

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Biotechnology research and development

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Carlos, CA, US

Year founded

2013