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Associate Chemist Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Chemist I

Rockville, MD · On-site

$59K - $87K/yr

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field; or an Associate's degree with equivalent applicable work experience. • Internship experience in relative field is ...

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field; or an Associate's degree with equivalent applicable work experience. • Internship experience in relative field is ...

Associate Scientist 3

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $44/hr

As an Associate Scientist 3 your activities will support assay development through commercial ... Master's Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, etc.) with 1+ ...

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Associate Chemist information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$18

$29

$46

How much do associate chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate chemist in Springfield, VA is $29.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.38 and $32.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate chemist?

Associate Chemists are entry- to mid-level scientists who work in laboratories to analyze substances, conduct experiments, and assist in developing new products or processes. They support senior chemists by preparing samples, running tests, recording results, and maintaining lab equipment. Associate Chemists often work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, environmental science, or food and beverage. Their role is essential for ensuring quality control, research progress, and regulatory compliance within their organizations.

What does an associate chemist do?

An associate chemist works in a chemistry lab and performs material analysis, chemical tests, and other research experiments under the supervision of a lead chemist or more senior researcher. Your duties and responsibilities differ based on where you work. Associate chemists work in numerous industries, including pharmacies, pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical research and development, industrial production, and oil and gas exploration and refining. Depending on the field, you may have specific duties related to a specialization, such as forensic chemistry or inorganic chemistry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate chemist?

To thrive as an Associate Chemist, a solid background in chemistry, laboratory techniques, and a relevant bachelor's degree are generally required. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as HPLC, GC, and spectrophotometers, as well as experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is typical. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, compliance with safety standards, and successful collaboration within research or quality control environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by an associate chemist during laboratory work, and how can they be managed?

Associate Chemists often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected results. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, document all procedures meticulously, and communicate openly with colleagues and supervisors. Regularly participating in team meetings and seeking guidance from senior chemists can also help in overcoming technical hurdles and improving workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Associate Chemist vs Chemist?

AspectAssociate ChemistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry or related fieldBachelor's degree, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, quality control, research supportResearch labs, product development, analytical testing
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, manufacturing, research institutionsSame as Associate Chemist, often with more responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Chemist and a Chemist lies in experience and responsibility levels. Associate Chemists typically support laboratory operations and perform routine testing, while Chemists often lead experiments and analyze data independently. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in scientific industries, but Chemists usually have more advanced roles and responsibilities.

Can you be an associate chemist with an associate's degree?

Yes, an associate chemist position typically requires an associate's degree in chemistry, chemical technology, or a related field. Employers may also value laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes relevant certifications, but a bachelor's degree is often preferred for more advanced roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA?

The most popular types of Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA?

For Associate Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Chemist jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Associate Chemist jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Associate Chemist job openings:

Chemist I

Rockville, MD • On-site

$59K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This job is responsible for manufacturing and characterizing products using synthetic organic chemistry techniques while following manufacturing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and completing appropriate documentation.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Performs organic syntheses as instructed in SOPs to manufacture compounds for use in company products.
• Monitors reactions in-process using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) to determine progress.
• Purifies reactions using size-exclusion chromatography, flash chromatography, and recrystallization to isolate desired compounds and measure process yields.
• Analyzes purified products by HPLC and TLC to determine levels of purity.
• Interprets Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Mass Spectrometer (MS) spectra to determine identity of synthesized compounds.
• Dispenses solutions into vials using automated dispensing equipment.
• Operates lyophilizers and automated crimping and labeling equipment to produce lyophilized vials.
• Participates in inventory control by issuing materials and completing work orders in JDEdwards.
• Completes appropriate documentation for all production procedures to including production batch records, work order forms, batch checklists, and product submission forms.
• Participates in general laboratory maintenance including maintaining laboratory cleanliness, supplies and equipment.
• Participate in year-end physical inventory counting and regular cycle counting, to ensure financial accuracy of inventory.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field; or an Associate's degree with equivalent applicable work experience.
• Internship experience in relative field is highly desirable
• Prior manufacturing experience is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Familiarity with organic chemistry techniques such as chromatography, rotary evaporation, phase separations, High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and MS.
• Knowledge of JDEdwards or other ERP system is preferred.
• Knowledge of cGMP and/or ISO certification is preferred.
• Ability to learn additional software applications/tools, as required.
• Ability to follow laboratory safety instructions; ability to use protective equipment.
• Knowledge of scientific fundamentals and strong analytical background.
• Knowledge of automated vialing or bottling equipment function and use is preferred.
o Mechanical aptitude including equipment troubleshooting
• Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.
o Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of laboratory data
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and frequent lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Up to 80% of the day may be spent at a lab bench and/or in the cleanroom
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Standard industrial laboratory environment
COMPENSATION SUMMARY:
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $59,100 to $87,900. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY:
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT:
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please click on the following link: https://www.mesoscale.com/en/our_company/careers/equal_employment_opportunity_statement.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.