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Formulation Scientist Pharmaceutical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join our Formulation Development group. In this role ... S. in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, or a related field, with 0 ...

$110 - $170/hr

We are looking for an innovative formulation scientist to lead the development of breakthrough skin ... Identify technologies from adjacent industries--including cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join our Formulation Development group. In this role ... Collaborate effectively within Pharmaceutical Development and cross-functional project teams ...

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Formulation Scientist Pharmaceutical information

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How much do formulation scientist pharmaceutical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for formulation scientist pharmaceutical in the United States is $37.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $43.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a formulation scientist do in the pharmaceutical industry?

A Formulation Scientist in the pharmaceutical industry is responsible for developing and optimizing the composition of drug products. They work on creating stable, effective, and safe formulations by combining active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with other substances. Their role involves conducting experiments, analyzing data, and ensuring that the final product meets regulatory and quality standards. Additionally, they collaborate with other scientists, scale up processes for manufacturing, and troubleshoot any formulation-related challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a formulation scientist in the pharmaceutical industry?

To thrive as a Formulation Scientist in pharmaceuticals, you need a strong background in chemistry, pharmaceutics, and material science, often supported by a relevant degree such as a BSc, MSc, or PhD. Familiarity with analytical instruments (e.g., HPLC, GC), formulation software, and regulatory guidelines (such as GMP and ICH) is essential, along with experience in experimental design. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong collaboration skills are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing safe, effective drug products and ensuring regulatory compliance throughout the formulation process.

What are some common challenges encountered by a formulation scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, and how can they be addressed?

Formulation Scientists often face challenges such as ensuring the stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients, scaling up formulations from laboratory to production levels, and meeting regulatory requirements for quality and safety. Tackling these issues requires strong collaboration with analytical, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams, as well as staying updated on new excipients and formulation technologies. Effective problem-solving skills and attention to detail are crucial for adapting formulations to meet both scientific and regulatory standards.
More about Formulation Scientist Pharmaceutical jobs
Infographic showing various Formulation Scientist Pharmaceutical job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,236 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Scientist, Formulation Development

Alkermes

Waltham, MA

$136/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join our Formulation Development group. In this role, you will design, execute, and interpret laboratorybased formulation and materials characterization experiments to support smallmolecule drug product development across clinical stages. You will contribute to technical innovation, build product and process understanding, and collaborate closely with crossfunctional development teams in a collaborative, inclusive environment.

Why join Team Alkermes?

Alkermes applies its decades of deep neuroscience expertise to develop medicines designed to help people living with complex and difficult-to-treat psychiatric and neurological disorders. A global biopharmaceutical company, headquartered in Ireland with U.S. locations in Massachusetts and Ohio, we seek to make a meaningful difference in the way people manage their diseases. We have a portfolio of proprietary commercial products for the treatment of alcohol dependence, opioid dependence, schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder and narcolepsy, and a pipeline of clinical and preclinical candidates in development for various psychiatric and neurological disorders.

We are proud to have been recognized as an employer of choice by many national organizations. In 2024 and 2025, we were certified as a Great Place to Work in the U.S. and named one of Massachusetts' Top Places to Work by the Boston Globe, a Best Place to Work in Greater Cincinnati by the Cincinnati Business Courier and recognized as a Best Place to Work in BioPharma by Fortune Magazine. 

Alkermes, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any qualified applicant or employee because of race, creed, color, age, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, application for military service or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law.  Alkermes also complies with all work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA.  Alkermes is an E-Verify employer.

Basic Qualifications:

Ph.D. / M.S. / B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, or a related field, with 0-3 / 6+ / 10+ years of pharmaceutical development experience, respectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with or exposure to modifiedrelease (e.g., extendedrelease, controlledrelease) formulation development.

  • Experience or exposure to Process Analytical Technology (PAT), and/or chemometrics.

  • Comfort expanding beyond core expertise to integrate new tools, techniques, or disciplines in support of development programs.

  • Demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and initiative in identifying opportunities for innovation or improved development approaches.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $136, 727 to $149,400. In addition, this position is eligible for an annual performance pay bonus.  Exact compensation may vary based on skills, training, knowledge, and experience. Alkermes offers a competitive benefits package.  Additional details can be found on our careers website: www.alkermes.com/careers#working-here  

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  • Design, execute, and interpret laboratory experiments supporting smallmolecule formulation development across early and late stages.
  • Apply materials science, drug substance and drug product characterization principles, and pharmaceutical unit operations to meet clinical and project deliverables.
  • Execute and interpret materials testing and formulation studies to deepen product and process understanding and expand internal knowledge.
  • Ability to independently compile experimental data and interpretation into thorough, highquality technical reports suitable for project and regulatory use
  • Support strategic project planning and execution, balancing nearterm deliverables with longerterm development objectives.
  • Collaborate effectively within Pharmaceutical Development and crossfunctional project teams, fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
  • Maintain and grow scientific and technical expertise, and proactively contribute ideas for new studies, approaches, or development strategies.Â