1

Computational Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Own computational theoretical chemistry programs across therapeutic modalities, disease targets, and indications * Ensure effective collaboration with the Biology, and Medicinal Chemistry teams by ...

Own computational theoretical chemistry programs across therapeutic modalities, disease targets, and indications * Ensure effective collaboration with the Biology, and Medicinal Chemistry teams by ...

Own computational theoretical chemistry programs across therapeutic modalities, disease targets, and indications * Ensure effective collaboration with the Biology, and Medicinal Chemistry teams by ...

Own computational chemistry programs across therapeutic modalities, disease targets, and indications * Ensure effective collaboration with the Biology and Medicinal Chemistry teams by providing key ...

Own computational chemistry programs across therapeutic modalities, disease targets, and indications * Ensure effective collaboration with the Biology and Medicinal Chemistry teams by providing key ...

Computational Chemist IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

Who We Are Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting ...

Showing results 21-40

Computational Chemist information

See salary details

$17

$30

$52

How much do computational chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational chemist in the United States is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Computational Chemist Do?

The duties of a computational chemist involve using computers to help perform experiments and research. In a career in computational chemistry, you use computer theory to make predictions about the results of theoretical analyses or to compute the structures of molecules and solids. Your responsibilities as a computational chemist can vary widely. Some chemists perform research that uses computers to make exact measurements and obtain specific results, while others use computational chemistry methods to expand the scope of their study or create theoretical hypotheses.

How does a Computational Chemist typically collaborate with experimental chemists in a research setting?

Computational Chemists often work closely with experimental chemists to design and interpret experiments. They use computer models to predict molecular behavior, suggest potential compounds, and explain observed experimental results. Regular meetings and data exchanges are common, allowing both teams to refine hypotheses and accelerate the research process. This collaboration helps in validating computational predictions and optimizing experimental workflows, making teamwork and clear communication essential in this role.

What is the salary of a computational chemist?

The average salary of a computational chemist in the United States ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in modeling and simulation can earn over $130,000 annually.

What does a computational chemist do?

A computational chemist uses computer simulations and modeling techniques to study chemical structures, reactions, and properties. They often work with specialized software and programming skills to predict molecular behavior, assist in drug discovery, and analyze experimental data. Their work supports experimental chemists and advances research in chemistry and related fields.

What are computational chemists?

Computational chemists are scientists who use computer simulations, mathematical models, and theoretical chemistry methods to study the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules. They apply various computational techniques to solve chemical problems that may be difficult or impossible to address through experiments alone. Computational chemists work in academia, industry, and government, often collaborating with experimental chemists to interpret results and design new materials or drugs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computational Chemist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, mathematics, and computer science, often supported by a graduate degree in chemistry or a related field. Expertise in molecular modeling software, programming languages (such as Python or C++), and familiarity with high-performance computing environments is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing accurate simulations, advancing research, and driving innovation in chemical discovery.

Do I need a PhD to be a computational chemist?

A PhD is typically required for senior or research-focused computational chemist roles, especially in academia or industry research. Entry-level positions may accept candidates with a master's degree or relevant experience, but advanced roles usually demand a doctoral degree along with strong skills in programming, modeling, and data analysis.

Is computational chemistry a good career?

Computational chemists use computer simulations and modeling to study chemical problems, often working in research, pharmaceuticals, or materials science. The field offers strong job prospects, especially for those with programming skills and knowledge of chemistry, and typically requires a graduate degree such as a master's or Ph.D. to advance in research roles.

What is the difference between Computational Chemist vs Chemist?

AspectComputational ChemistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related; often with programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Chemistry or related field; laboratory experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, offices, computer-based analysisLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, research institutions
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, chemicals, materials science, academiaPharmaceuticals, manufacturing, quality control, academia
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Computational Chemist and a Chemist lies in their focus and work environment. Computational Chemists primarily use computer simulations and modeling to study chemical problems, often requiring programming skills. Chemists typically work in laboratories performing experiments and analysis. Both roles are vital in industries like pharmaceuticals and materials science, but their daily tasks and skill sets differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Computational Chemist jobs? Cities with the most Computational Chemist job openings:
What states have the most Computational Chemist jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Chemist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Computational Chemist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,466 per year, or $31 per hour.
Senior Scientist, Computational Chemistry

Senior Scientist, Computational Chemistry

Pfizer, Inc.

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$93K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Pfizer rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

WHY PATIENTS NEED YOU
Pfizer's purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients' lives. Research and Development is at the heart of fulfilling that purpose-translating science and technology into therapies and vaccines that matter most. Whether in discovery, development, or clinical research, you will be a key contributor to our mission of bringing best-in-class medicines to patients worldwide.
WHAT YOU WILL ACHIEVE
You will be a computational chemist working as a collaborative member of Medicinal Chemistry and multidisciplinary drug discovery teams.
In this role, you will apply established computational chemistry methods to support molecular design, data interpretation, and hypothesis generation under the guidance of experienced scientists.
The position is intended for a developing scientist with strong scientific fundamentals, interest in drug discovery, and practical experience with molecular modeling, data analysis, and scripting.
HOW YOU WILL ACHIEVE IT
  • As a member of project teams, you will use computational approaches to help prioritize molecules, interpret structure-activity relationships, and support design ideas.
  • You will apply commonly used methods such as molecular visualization, docking, conformational analysis, structure-based design, ligand-based analysis, and basic cheminformatics workflows.
  • You will contribute to project discussions, communicate results clearly, and work with senior computational chemists and experimental colleagues to refine analyses and identify the next practical steps for drug discovery projects.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
  • Ph.D. in computational chemistry, chemistry, biophysics, computational biology, or a related discipline; or M.S. with relevant research experience.
  • 0-2 years of postdoctoral, academic, or industry experience in computational chemistry or a related field.
  • Experience contributing to research projects through graduate work, postdoctoral training, internships, co-ops, or collaborative project experience is acceptable.

Technical Skills Requirements
  • Working knowledge of one or more computational chemistry areas, such as molecular docking, structure-based design, ligand-based design, molecular visualization, conformational analysis, or cheminformatics.
  • Strong understanding of physical chemistry, protein-ligand interactions, and structure-activity relationships.
  • Familiarity with common molecular modeling software and willingness to learn additional tools and workflows.
  • Proficient scripting or data analysis skills, preferably in Python; experience with Linux or high-performance computing environments is a plus but not required.
  • Ability to analyze results carefully, document work clearly, and communicate scientific findings to project team members.
  • Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity. Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use

Additional Information:
  • Relocation support available
  • Work Location Assignment: On Premise
  • Last Day to Apply: July 24, 2026
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $93,600.00 to $156,000.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 12.5% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life's moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site - U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
Candidates must be authorized to be employed in the U.S. by any employer.
U.S. work visa sponsorship (such as TN, O-1, H-1B, etc.) is not available for this role now or in the future.
Sunshine Act
Pfizer reports payments and other transfers of value to health care providers as required by federal and state transparency laws and implementing regulations. These laws and regulations require Pfizer to provide government agencies with information such as a health care provider's name, address and the type of payments or other value received, generally for public disclosure. Subject to further legal review and statutory or regulatory clarification, which Pfizer intends to pursue, reimbursement of recruiting expenses for licensed physicians may constitute a reportable transfer of value under the federal transparency law commonly known as the Sunshine Act. Therefore, if you are a licensed physician who incurs recruiting expenses as a result of interviewing with Pfizer that we pay or reimburse, your name, address and the amount of payments made currently will be reported to the government. If you have questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact your Talent Acquisition representative.
EEO & Employment Eligibility
Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
Pfizer endeavors to make www.pfizer.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process and/or interviewing, please email disabilityrecruitment@pfizer.com. This is to be used solely for accommodation requests with respect to the accessibility of our website, online application process and/or interviewing. Requests for any other reason will not be returned.
To learn more about acceptable and prohibited uses of AI during the recruitment process, please review our candidate AI-use guidelines available on Pfizer Careers.
Research and Development

What Pfizer employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Pfizer logo

About Pfizer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

All over the world, Pfizer colleagues work together to positively impact health for everyone, everywhere. Our colleagues have the opportunity to grow and develop a career that offers both individual and company success; be part of an ownership culture that values diversity and where all colleagues are energized and engaged; and the ability to impact the health and lives of millions of people. Pfizer, a global leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, is continuously seeking top talent who are inspired by our purpose to innovate to bring therapies to patients that significantly improve their lives. Our Health and Science System Specialists Team provides leadership across patient care settings in the complex Hospital, Health System, and Key Medical Group environment to bring value to our customers and patients in this dynamic ecosystem.

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1849