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Medicinal Chemist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Medicinal Chemist

Placentia, CA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Seeking self motivated experienced medicinal chemist to help lead custom synthesis group. Primary job responsibility involves development of key radiolabeled starting materials and their application ...

Medicinal Chemist

Placentia, CA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Seeking self motivated experienced medicinal chemist to help lead custom synthesis group. Primary job responsibility involves development of key radiolabeled starting materials and their application ...

We are currently looking for a Chemist III/Senior Chemist to work for a leading Orange County area biotechnology company. Pay Rate : $40-50/hour Contract : 6+ months (with potential for conversion ...

Chemist I Location: Pomona, California Duration: 7 Months 100% Onsite Summary We are seeking a motivated Analytical Chemist I to support our Analytical Toxicology Laboratory on a six-month contract ...

Production Chemist This is an exciting opportunity to join a global, industry leading company. The Chemist will formulate products and intermediates utilizing biologicals and chemicals of varying ...

Analytical Chemist I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19.10 - $24.10/hr

Analytical Chemist I Job Location: Pomona CA Job Type: Contract Job Overview: Pay Range: $19.10hr - $24.10hr Requirement/Must Have: * Bachelor s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical ...

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We are currently looking for an Chemist to join our growing team! ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Perform analysis using one or more of the following techniques: GC, LCMS, GCMS, GC, HPLC, ICP/MS, ICP ...

We are currently looking for an Chemist to join our growing team! ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Perform analysis using one or more of the following techniques: GC, LCMS, GCMS, GC, HPLC, ICP/MS, ICP ...

We are currently looking for an Chemist to join our growing team! ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES * Perform analysis using one or more of the following techniques: GC, LCMS, GCMS, GC, HPLC, ICP/MS, ICP ...

ATS CHEMIST III

Irvine, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related discipline. * 5+ plus years' experience in a chemistry laboratory, or equivalent combination of education and experience. * 5+ years' experience with ...

ATS CHEMIST II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Bachelors degree in chemistry or related discipline. * 2+ years experience in a chemistry laboratory. * 2+ yrs of years experience with analytical instrumentation, such as HPLC, GC, CE, ICP, FTIR ...

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or a related field. Relevant experience may be substituted for education. * At least two years of laboratory experience ...

Analytical Chemist I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Toxicology, or a related scientific discipline. * 1 to 2 years of analytical laboratory experience. * Basic understanding of ...

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Analytical Chemist I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Analytical Chemist I Location: Pomona, CA, US, 91767 Duration: 06 months of Contract (with possible extension) Shift : 8:00 am - 5:00 pm from Mon - Fri Pay Rate: 23.00/hr. Position Summary We are ...

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ATS CHEMIST III

Irvine, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related discipline. * 5+ plus years' experience in a chemistry laboratory, or equivalent combination of education and experience. * 5+ years' experience with ...

Analytical Chemist I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19.10 - $24.10/hr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Toxicology, or a related scientific discipline. 1 to 2 years of analytical laboratory experience. Basic understanding of ...

New

Research Chemist

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Job Summary The Research Chemist will independently execute laboratory testing and research activities using chemical, physical, and advanced instrumental techniques to support the analysis and ...

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Chemist I - Analytical Toxicology Laboratory Location: Pomona, CA Position Type: Full-Time, 6-Month Contract Industry: Diagnostics / Analytical Toxicology Position Overview Viltis is seeking a ...

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Chemist I - Analytical Toxicology Laboratory Location: Pomona, CA Position Type: Full-Time, 6-Month Contract Industry: Diagnostics / Analytical Toxicology Position Overview Viltis is seeking a ...

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Research Chemist

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Job Summary The Research Chemist will independently execute laboratory testing and research activities using chemical, physical, and advanced instrumental techniques to support the analysis and ...

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Medicinal Chemist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$84.5K

$150K

$202.9K

How much do medicinal chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for medicinal chemist in Riverside, CA is $149,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,200.00 and $182,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a medicinal chemist do?

A Medicinal Chemist is a scientist who designs, synthesizes, and tests new chemical compounds to develop potential new drugs. They work to understand how chemical structure affects biological activity and collaborate with biologists, pharmacologists, and other scientists in the drug discovery process. Their work is crucial in identifying and developing new medications that can treat diseases more effectively and with fewer side effects. Medicinal Chemists use a range of techniques in organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and computational modeling to optimize drug candidates.

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

To thrive as a Medicinal Chemist, you need a solid background in organic chemistry, drug design, and analytical techniques, typically supported by a degree (Master’s or PhD) in chemistry or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, molecular modeling software, and techniques such as NMR, HPLC, and mass spectrometry is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and collaborative communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this field. These capabilities are critical for efficiently designing, synthesizing, and optimizing drug candidates in a team-driven research environment.

What are some common challenges medicinal chemists face when working on drug discovery projects?

Medicinal chemists often encounter challenges such as optimizing the balance between a compound’s potency, selectivity, and safety. They must also address issues related to compound solubility, metabolic stability, and potential toxicity. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams—including biologists, pharmacologists, and computational chemists—is essential to address these hurdles and advance promising molecules through the drug discovery pipeline. Staying adaptable and continually learning new techniques are key to overcoming the evolving complexities of modern medicinal chemistry.

What is the difference between Medicinal Chemist vs Organic Chemist?

AspectMedicinal ChemistOrganic Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Chemistry or related fieldBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentPharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research labsAcademic labs, chemical manufacturing, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageDrug discovery, pharmaceutical R&DChemical synthesis, materials development, research
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in drug developmentUnderstanding chemical synthesis and research

Medicinal Chemists focus on designing and developing new drugs, working closely with pharmaceutical R&D teams. Organic Chemists have a broader scope in chemical synthesis and research, often working in academia or chemical manufacturing. While both roles require strong chemistry credentials, Medicinal Chemists specialize in drug-related applications, whereas Organic Chemists work across various chemical industries.

How much does a medicinal chemist get paid?

Medicinal chemists typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior roles can earn higher salaries, especially in pharmaceutical or biotech industries.

What jobs can you do with medicinal chemist?

A medicinal chemist can work in drug discovery and development, designing and synthesizing new pharmaceutical compounds. They often work in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, or research institutions, utilizing skills in organic chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis. Career options include roles such as research scientist, formulation chemist, or pharmacologist.

What are popular job titles related to Medicinal Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Medicinal Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Medicinal Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Medicinal Chemist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Medicinal Chemist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Medicinal Chemist job openings:

Infographic showing various Medicinal Chemist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 50% Contract, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $149,969 per year, or $72.1 per hour.

Medicinal Chemist

Vitrax

Placentia, CA • On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Seeking self motivated experienced medicinal chemist to help lead custom synthesis group. Primary job responsibility involves development of key radiolabeled starting materials and their application into the synthesis of complex drug structures. Familiarity with vacuum line techniques, small scale isotope synthesis, HPLC and radiometric analyses will support the ideal candidate. Proven record of hands on experience with a wide variety of organic synthesis transformations required. Superior communication and documentation skills desired.