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Formulation Chemist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Analytical Chemist

Fieldale, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Description We are seeking an Analytical Chemist with an experimental focus to join the Technology organization in Martinsville, Virginia. As a member of a high-performing team, this individual will ...

Analytical Chemist

Fieldale, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Description We are seeking an Analytical Chemist with an experimental focus to join the Technology organization in Martinsville, Virginia. As a member of a high-performing team, this individual will ...

Chemist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$63K/yr

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at ...

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at ...

Analytical Chemist

Fieldale, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Description We are seeking an Analytical Chemist with an experimental focus to join the Technology organization in Martinsville, Virginia. As a member of a high-performing team, this individual will ...

Analytical Chemist

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Description We are seeking an Analytical Chemist with an experimental focus to join the Technology organization in Martinsville, Virginia. As a member of a high-performing team, this individual will ...

New

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at ...

$55K/yr

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at ...

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at ...

Showing results 21-40

Formulation Chemist information

See Virginia salary details

$34.7K

$87K

$146.7K

How much do formulation chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for formulation chemist in Virginia is $86,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a formulation chemist?

A formulation chemist helps in the product testing and development of pharmaceuticals or household products, like cleaners, cosmetics, and soaps. Your duties include mixing different agents or compounds and performing tests, such as UV tests, to determine product safety and potential for use. Some formulation chemists work in other industries such as the oil and gas industry where they inspect octane levels for car fuel. You might also find work as a cosmetic chemist where you test makeup and perfumes. Others work in the food industry, testing and creating ingredients and flavor additives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a formulation chemist?

To excel as a Formulation Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry or chemical engineering, typically with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Proficiency in laboratory techniques, analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC, or spectrophotometry), and familiarity with regulatory standards like GMP are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively and ensure product quality. These capabilities are crucial for developing stable, effective formulations that meet safety, efficacy, and regulatory requirements.

What are some typical challenges a formulation chemist faces when working on new product development?

Formulation Chemists often encounter challenges such as balancing the stability, efficacy, and safety of new products while meeting regulatory requirements and cost constraints. They must troubleshoot issues like ingredient incompatibilities, unexpected chemical reactions, or scale-up difficulties when moving from lab to production. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, such as quality assurance and manufacturing, is essential to address these challenges and ensure a successful product launch.

What is the difference between Formulation Chemist vs Analytical Chemist?

AspectFormulation ChemistAnalytical Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on product development and formulationLaboratories focused on testing and analyzing samples
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and consumer goods companiesQuality control labs, research institutions, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Formulation Chemists focus on developing and optimizing product formulations, while Analytical Chemists specialize in testing and analyzing samples to ensure quality and compliance. Both roles require strong chemistry backgrounds and often work together in product development and quality assurance processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia?

For Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Formulation Chemist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Formulation Chemist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Formulation Chemist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Formulation Chemist jobs in VA?

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

Infographic showing various Formulation Chemist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,980 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Principal Chemist - Analytical Chemistry

MRIGlobal

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$117K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about making the world better? Are you looking for an organization that aligns with your values?
MRIGlobal solves challenging problems through science, engineering, and program management. We are an independent scientific research organization dedicated to benefiting society and fostering a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment.
When you embark on a career with MRIGlobal, you are joining a crew of world-class talent and problem solvers. Established in 1944, MRIGlobal is headquartered in Kansas City, MO, working in several states including Virginia and Maryland.
Principal Chemist - Analytical Chemistry
MRIGlobal is seeking a highly motivated person to join our Integrated Defense Solutions Business Unit as a Principal Chemist in Charlottesville, VA. The successful candidate will join a team of scientists actively conducting chemical forensics and analysis. The ideal candidate will possess substantial experience in chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Principal Accountabilities and Success Factors
Successful candidates will have a passion for applied research and developing technically sound solutions to real-world problems. The Principal Chemist will be an integral part of our team supporting and directing research and development laboratory activities, in execution of relevant federal program, QA/Safety/SOPs, and analytical instrumentation. Candidates should possess an understanding of the theory of various analytical chemistry techniques along with practical operation and be able to apply that understanding towards creative problem resolution to meet client expectations and deadlines. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. In order to meet the government security investigation requirements, U.S. citizenship is a requirement.
Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
  • Provide technical direction
  • Direct and/or perform various standard preparation, sample preparation, and sample analysis.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of analytical instrumentation
  • Development of analytical methods.
  • Prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Perform technical reviews of analytical data and reports.
  • Writes or contributes to technical proposals, reports, and/or papers for publication or presentation with clear results and concise, well supported conclusions.
  • Interact with Clients to provide updates and summary of testing results.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field and minimum of 3 years of experience; M.S. in Chemistry or related field, and a minimum 6 years of related experience; B.S. in Chemistry or related field, minimum 10+ years of related experience; or appropriate combination of education and experience.
  • Strong organizational skills, problem solving aptitude, and adaptability to changing priorities
  • Possess excellent legible and logical laboratory records documentation.
  • PC skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Project, and Outlook) and ability to learn new software and systems.

Applicants MUST be a U.S. Citizen and be eligible to obtain a Department of Defense Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior industry experience with GC/LC/MS instrumentation including:
    • Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
    • Gas Chromatography - High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (GC-HRMS)
    • Liquid Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry / Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
  • Familiarity with keeping laboratory areas up to date on safety and security requirements.
  • Prior leadership roles with strong organizational skills, problem solving aptitude, and adaptability to changing priorities.
  • Experience maintaining legible and logical laboratory records documentation.

Pay Range - $117,000 - $146,000
The salary range is intended as a general guideline and is not a guaranteed offer, as compensation depends on various factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate qualifications, experience, internal equity, and market conditions. MRIGlobal also provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health and life insurance, disability coverage, gym reimbursement, mental health support, paid holidays, and PTO.
WHAT WE OFFER
At MRIGlobal, we offer benefits and perks that make your life even better.
Your Well-Being: You can receive comprehensive coverage for you and your family, and resources that support mental, physical, social, and financial well-being. Get access to wellness benefits like virtual coaching, no-cost counseling, onsite health screenings, gym reimbursement, and more. MRIGlobal has received multiple wellness recognitions, including being named "Healthiest Employer" by Kansas City's Business Journal in 2024.
A Bright Future: MRIGlobal offers award-winning employer retirement matches and no-cost financial education benefits. Get paid Parental Leave. Enjoy PTO, and a flexible culture that encourages work-life integration.
Personal Development: At MRIGlobal, you will enjoy diverse work that will grow your skillset, along with a tuition reimbursement option to pay for higher education.
A Genuine Community: MRIGlobal is a special workplace. From our Chili Cook-offs, Pi Day, and charitable giving opportunities, our traditions strengthen our team spirit. Join our seasonal staff events, DEI celebrations, and volunteer in initiatives that nurture future STEM generations.
To view all of MRIGlobal's current openings and to ensure that we receive your resume, visit our Career page.
EOE, including disability/vets. As an organization dedicated to scientific advancement, MRIGlobal invites and embraces diversity in our people. We value their unique backgrounds and perspectives in every aspect of our mission. We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and represented, fostering a culture where all input is welcome. We adapt to change, challenge the status quo, and evolve through belonging, allyship, and mutual support.
Certain roles, depending on the nature of the job or work assignment require adherence to specific safety measures, including up-to-date vaccinations. This requirement aligns with both our operational needs and the expectations of our clients. Employees must furnish proof of such vaccinations before commencing their duties. Should an individual be unable to meet this vaccination criterion due to a legitimate medical condition, disability, pregnancy, or religious belief, we offer the option to apply for a reasonable accommodation in line with applicable laws. Inquiries or requests for accommodations should be directed to accessibility@mriglobal.org, ensuring a prompt and considerate resolution process. It's important to note that failure to comply with a vaccination-required role or to secure an approved accommodation may affect one's employment status with our organization.
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