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Fda Scientist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Sr Research Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · Hybrid

$94K - $120K/yr

... g., FDA/CVM, EMA) on analytical topics. What will give you a competitive edge (preferred ... Proven scientific leadership skills combined with strong problem-solving and creative thinking ...

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Fda Scientist information

See Indiana salary details

$48.1K

$106K

$130.8K

How much do fda scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for fda scientist in Indiana is $105,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,900.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an FDA Scientist job?

An FDA Scientist is a researcher or regulatory expert responsible for evaluating the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, biologics, and food products. They conduct laboratory research, review clinical trial data, and assess regulatory submissions to ensure compliance with federal laws and guidelines. FDA Scientists play a critical role in protecting public health by making science-based decisions on product approvals and safety standards.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an FDA Scientist?

As an FDA Scientist, you'll typically be involved in reviewing data from clinical trials, conducting laboratory research, evaluating the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals or medical devices, and preparing reports for regulatory submissions. You'll collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including chemists, statisticians, and regulatory specialists to ensure scientific rigor and adherence to federal standards. Some days may involve detailed data analysis, while others could require participating in cross-team meetings or interacting with external stakeholders. This dynamic environment offers opportunities to contribute to important public health decisions and develop specialized expertise over time.

What is the highest paying job at the FDA?

The highest paying jobs at the FDA are typically senior leadership roles such as the Commissioner of Food and Drugs or Deputy Commissioner, as well as senior scientific and medical directors. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn salaries exceeding $200,000 annually, with additional benefits and bonuses.

How much do FDA scientists make?

FDA scientists typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often start around $70,000, while experienced scientists or those with advanced degrees can earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills or supervisory roles.

Is it hard to get hired by the FDA?

Getting hired as an FDA scientist can be competitive due to the specialized qualifications required, such as relevant degrees and experience in regulatory science or related fields. Candidates often need to pass rigorous screening processes, including interviews and background checks, and may require certifications or knowledge of FDA regulations. Strong technical skills and familiarity with the agency's procedures improve hiring prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fda Scientist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an FDA Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, pharmacology, or a related scientific field, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with regulatory submission systems, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant certifications such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is important. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel when collaborating with colleagues and presenting findings. These abilities ensure accurate data review and regulatory compliance, which are crucial for advancing public health and safety.

Does the FDA employ scientists?

Yes, the FDA employs scientists in various roles such as biologists, chemists, and pharmacologists to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of medical products, foods, and cosmetics. These scientists often work in laboratories, conduct research, and analyze data to support regulatory decisions, typically requiring relevant degrees and certifications. Their work is essential to ensuring public health and safety standards are met.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fda Scientist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Fda Scientist jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Fda Scientist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,950 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Sr. Scientist - Coatings Regulatory & Technology

Kaiser Aluminum Corporation

Newburgh, IN • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Kaiser Aluminum rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Kaiser Aluminum Warrick has been on the path of innovation, embracing the latest technologies for almost 60 years! We have revolutionized the industry and lead the way in the development of sustainable aluminum products the you use every day for food and drinks. Our people are the bedrock for our operations. Along with their dedication to excellence and integrity, our people are drivers of continuous improvement who build on new ideas while flourishing within our growing business. We provide opportunities for you to think outside the box and bring creative and progressive solutions to our operations. Our passion for inclusion, diversity and equity is a value at the core of our organization and people. Are you ready to start your journey with us and be the future of Kaiser Warrick Aluminum?
Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it-innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people. We are seeking an experienced and driven Sr. Scientist - Coatings Regulatory & Technology to join our largest plant operations in Newburgh, IN.
The Sr. Scientist - Coatings Regulatory & Technology performs coating development activities for all Warrick products. An expectation of this role is to own regulatory compliance (FDA / food contact / global) for coatings and packaging materials and provide technical leadership in coating development, performance, and customer application.
The primary purpose of this role is twofold:
Own regulatory compliance (FDA / food contact / global) for coatings and packaging materials. Provide technical leadership in coating development, performance, and customer application
This position reports directly to Research and Development Manager.
What's in it for you!
To support our teams and their families beyond the workplace, we provide an outstanding benefits package effective day one of employment!
Industry leading compensation program.
  • 401K options that begin vesting day 1.
  • First-rate vacation plan for valuable work-life balance.
  • Relocation assistance for new team members.

The role is accountable for:
  • Regulatory qualification and certification of all Warrick supplied products,
  • Technical guidance and decision-making on coating selection, performance, and failure modes
  • Integration of regulatory requirements into product development and manufacturing

Additionally, the position serves as:
  • A senior technical authority for coatings, coating application and packaging systems
  • A key interface with customers, suppliers, and Industry Organizations
  • A leader of Advanced Engineering coating programs and testing capabilities

Major Activities / Key Challenges
Regulatory & Compliance Leadership
  • Full accountability for FDA and food-contact regulatory compliance (U.S., EU, global) programs
  • Conduct raw material reviews and determine testing requirements
  • Issue certification letters to customers (FDA, FCN, EU, Prop 65, etc.)
  • Lead FDA audits and regulatory training,
  • Track emerging global regulations via industry organizations

Technical Leadership - Coatings
  • Act as subject matter expert for:
    • Pre-treatment,
    • Coating chemistry,
    • Coating application,
    • Performance, failure modes, and process sensitivities
  • Define coating design rules and selection criteria
  • Solve complex customer or production-related technical issues

Product & Process Development
  • Lead coating development programs (e.g., BPA-NI, sustainability initiatives)
  • Support conversion projects and customer qualifications
  • Ensure compatibility across:
    • Manufacturing
    • Forming/filling
    • Regulatory requirements

Project & Portfolio Leadership
  • Lead and prioritize coating-related AE projects aligned with business strategy
  • Support TTI, customer, and supplier-driven development programs
  • Manage risks, deliverables, and cross-functional coordination

External Interface
  • Serve as senior technical contact for:
    • Customers (qualification, troubleshooting)
    • Suppliers (coating development, scale-up)
    • Industry organizations.
  • Represent the organization in technical and regulatory discussions

Intellectual Property & Strategy
  • Manage Warrick IP strategy and execution
  • Coordinate with legal on patent filings, office actions, and portfolio optimization

Key Challenges
  • Balancing innovation vs regulatory constraints
  • Managing global regulatory uncertainty (FDA vs EU divergence)
  • Maintaining technical credibility with customers and suppliers
  • Preventing loss of critical tacit knowledge during transition
  • Integrating regulatory requirements early in development

Essential Knowledge & Skills / Education
Technical Expertise
  • Advanced knowledge of coatings chemistry, surface treatments, and metal substrates
  • Knowledge of coating application processes to metal substrate
  • Strong understanding of food-contact regulations (FDA, EU, Global)
  • Knowledge of testing methods, qualification protocols, and compliance systems
  • Knowledge of customers package forming processes

Core Competencies
  • Ability to interpret complex regulations and translate into technical actions
  • Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability
  • Ability to work independently with high accountability
  • Strategic thinking and decision-making

Leadership & Interpersonal Skills
  • Strong communication skills (technical + executive level)
  • Ability to influence across functions and external stakeholders
  • Proven capability to mentor and develop technical talent
  • Ability to interface with customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies

Education
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or related field (preferred)

Major Customers/Suppliers
  • Advanced Engineering (AE) and Customer and Product Quality Assurance (CPQA) Teams
  • Warrick Operations and Process Technology Teams
  • Coating Suppliers (PPG, AkzoNobel, Sherwin-Williams, etc.)
  • Key Packaging Customers (Crown, Ball, Ardagh, Silgan, etc.)
  • Industry organizations.

Basic / Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Science or Engineering (Chemistry preferred)
  • 10+ years of experience in coatings, packaging, or related field
  • Demonstrated experience with FDA or food-contact regulations
  • Proven ability to lead technical programs and cross-functional projects
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience in customer and supplier interactions

FINANCIAL INDICATORS
Impact:
  • High impact on:
    • Product qualification and revenue continuity
    • Customer approvals and retention
    • Risk mitigation (regulatory and liability)

Scope:
  • Global / Multi-region (US + EU regulatory scope)

TEAM KAISER
Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing a diverse and inclusive culture. We are strongly committed to expanding inclusion, equity, and diversity - how we hire, develop, and inspire our diverse team members that reflects and relates to the increasingly multicultural community.
Kaiser Aluminum encourages applications from women, people of diverse backgrounds and those with different skills and life experiences. Kaiser is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer.
Kaiser Aluminum encourages applications from women, people of diverse backgrounds and those with different skills and life experiences. Kaiser is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer.

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