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Drug Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ... Coordinate and perform a range of drug identification tests, including Color Tests, Gas ...

Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ... Coordinate and perform a range of drug identification tests, including Color Tests, Gas ...

Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances ... Coordinate and perform a range of drug identification tests, including Color Tests, Gas ...

Job Posting Title Senior Drug Rebate Analyst - Remote The Senior Health Data Analyst provides information, analyses, and consultation to internal and external stakeholders. This position assesses the ...

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

Supports the development of methods for data collection, analysis, and reporting for assigned area. Analyzes and interprets data using statistical techniques. Assists with the creation of ...

Drug Safety Physician

Princeton, NJ ยท On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development ... Analysis of Similar Event and company comment statements, including benefit-risk assessment.

Drug Safety Physician

Princeton, NJ ยท On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development ... Analysis of Similar Event and company comment statements, including benefit-risk assessment.

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Drug Analyst information

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$31K

$73.3K

$130K

How much do drug analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug analyst in the United States is $73,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $87,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do drug analysts make in the US?

Drug analysts in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime opportunities.

How to become a drug analyst?

To become a drug analyst, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and knowledge of analytical instruments like chromatography and spectrometry. Some positions may require certification or experience in forensic or pharmaceutical analysis.

What are some common challenges Drug Analysts face when interpreting complex laboratory results?

Drug Analysts often encounter challenges when distinguishing between similar compounds or detecting trace levels of substances in complex matrices. Staying current with evolving testing methodologies and regulatory requirements is essential, as is maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines. Collaborating with chemists, quality assurance teams, and regulatory authorities is common, and effective communication is crucial when reporting findings or addressing discrepancies. Attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills help ensure reliable results and compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Drug Analyst vs Toxicologist?

AspectDrug AnalystToxicologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemistry, pharmacology, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in toxicology, biology, or related; often advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, forensic labs, pharmaceutical companiesResearch labs, healthcare, environmental agencies
Industry UsageDrug testing, forensic analysis, pharmaceutical quality controlHealth risk assessment, environmental safety, forensic investigations

While both Drug Analysts and Toxicologists work in laboratory settings and require similar educational backgrounds, Drug Analysts primarily focus on analyzing drugs, substances, and forensic samples. Toxicologists assess the effects of chemicals and toxins on health and the environment. Their roles often overlap in forensic and pharmaceutical contexts, but Toxicologists typically have a broader scope related to toxicity and safety assessments.

What are Drug Analysts?

Drug Analysts are professionals who examine and test pharmaceutical substances to ensure their quality, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards. They use a variety of laboratory techniques to analyze the chemical composition and potency of drugs. Drug Analysts often work in pharmaceutical companies, research labs, or government agencies, playing a vital role in ensuring that medications are safe and effective for public use. Their work helps prevent the distribution of substandard or counterfeit drugs, contributing to public health and safety.

What is the highest paid job in forensics?

The highest paid jobs in forensics are often senior forensic scientists, forensic laboratory managers, or crime lab directors, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and management skills, and they often involve overseeing forensic investigations and laboratory operations.

What does a drug analyst do?

A drug analyst examines biological samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, to detect and quantify drugs, toxins, or other substances. They use laboratory techniques like chromatography and spectroscopy, often working in forensic, clinical, or pharmaceutical settings, and may require certification or specialized training.

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

To thrive as a Drug Analyst, you need a solid background in chemistry, pharmacology, and analytical techniques, typically supported by a degree in pharmacy, chemistry, or related fields. Familiarity with laboratory instruments like HPLC, GC-MS, and knowledge of regulatory standards (such as FDA or USP) are essential, with certifications in analytical chemistry being advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong documentation skills are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate drug analysis, compliance with safety standards, and the reliability of test results crucial to public health.
More about Drug Analyst jobs
What cities are hiring for Drug Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Drug Analyst job openings:
What states have the most Drug Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Drug Analyst jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drug Analyst job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,261 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Forensic Drug Chemist

Forensic Drug Chemist

SNA International

Pearl, MS โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
SNA International seeks a bright, collaborative Forensic Drug Chemist with a strong work ethic to join our team. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause, to build a safe and just world by empowering organizations in the use of forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Provide expert technical assistance to law enforcement agencies in analyzing controlled substances, following MSFL policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation requirements.
  • Facilitate the receipt, tracking, and secure storage of samples related to drug cases, adhering to the chain of custody requirements.
  • Coordinate and perform a range of drug identification tests, including Color Tests, Gas Chromatography (GC), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
  • Document findings in a thorough manner and prepare comprehensive reports.
  • Ensure that all activities are performed in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards and that lab safety procedures are strictly followed.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree accredited four-year college/university in chemistry or other related science with sufficient chemistry courses (minimally general, organic, and analytical) or equivalent experience.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of recent work experience as a Forensic Drug Chemist working as a bench analyst within an ISO/IEC 17025 forensic laboratory is required.
  • Successful completion of a formal documented casework training program from an accredited forensic laboratory in forensic drug analysis and/or demonstration of competency.
  • Knowledge of basic theoretical principles and applications of the instrumentation and methodologies used to analyze controlled substances (e.g., Color Tests, GC, GC/MS, FTIR) and performing microscope and chemical tests.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, quality assurance/quality control, and laboratory practices; instrumental analysis and experience in forensic drug analysis.
  • Must be flexible and have the ability to travel to other laboratories in Mississippi if required.

TO APPLY:
Please submit your resume.
SNA International is 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, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.