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Pharmaceutical Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pharmaceutical Scientist I is responsible for performing routine analyses and documentation of raw materials, in-process samples, calibrations, or projects within the QC Chemistry Laboratory of a ...

$98K - $154K/yr

The Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences team is a formulation sciences group embedded within Drug Discovery at our Company Research Laboratories. We work closely with multidisciplinary project teams to ...

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Pharmaceutical Scientist information

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$28

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$56

How much do pharmaceutical scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical scientist in the United States is $42.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $53.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pharmaceutical Scientist, you need a strong background in chemistry, biology, and pharmacology, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, analytical software, and regulatory standards such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient development of pharmaceuticals, adherence to regulations, and successful teamwork in research environments.

Do pharmaceutical scientists make a lot of money?

Pharmaceutical scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. According to industry data, the median annual wage is around $80,000 to $120,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in drug development and research. Salary potential increases with experience and advanced certifications.

What is the highest salary for a pharmaceutical scientist?

The highest salaries for pharmaceutical scientists can exceed $150,000 annually, especially for those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, or leadership roles in the industry. Salaries vary based on location, specialization, and the size of the employer, with senior scientists and managers earning the most.

What are some common challenges pharmaceutical scientists face when working on drug development projects?

Pharmaceutical scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing tight project deadlines with the rigorous demands of regulatory compliance and scientific accuracy. They must troubleshoot unexpected results during formulation or testing, adapt to evolving technologies, and collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including chemists, clinicians, and regulatory specialists. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential, as priorities can shift rapidly based on new findings or changes in project scope.

What can you do as a pharmaceutical scientist?

A pharmaceutical scientist researches, develops, and tests new drugs and formulations to ensure safety and efficacy. They often work in laboratories, utilize techniques like chromatography and spectroscopy, and may be involved in clinical trials, regulatory compliance, and quality control. Strong knowledge of chemistry, biology, and regulatory standards is essential for this role.

What Is a Pharmaceutical Scientist?

A pharmaceutical scientist works in a laboratory to find, test, and analyze drugs. As a pharmaceutical scientist, you are responsible for improving older medications or testing the chemistry of new compounds for the health care industry. Your duties also involve presenting reports and findings to company executives and coordinating research efforts based on the company’s goals. Pharmaceutical scientists usually work as part of a large team of researchers at a medical center or drug company.

What jobs can I do with pharmaceutical science?

A pharmaceutical scientist can work in drug research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs, manufacturing, or clinical trials. These roles often require knowledge of chemistry, biology, and laboratory techniques, and may involve working in laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, or healthcare settings.

What is the difference between Pharmaceutical Scientist vs Pharmacist?

AspectPharmaceutical ScientistPharmacist
CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or related fieldDoctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, R&D departmentsCommunity pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Industry UsageDrug development, formulation, testing, regulatory affairsDispensing medications, patient counseling, medication management

Pharmaceutical Scientists focus on developing and testing new drugs in research settings, requiring advanced degrees in pharmaceutical sciences. Pharmacists primarily dispense medications and advise patients, holding a PharmD degree. While both roles are essential in the pharmaceutical industry, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are pharmaceutical scientists?

Pharmaceutical scientists are professionals who research, develop, and test new medications to ensure their safety and effectiveness. They work in laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory agencies, often collaborating with chemists, biologists, and medical professionals. Their work includes discovering new drug compounds, optimizing drug formulations, and analyzing how drugs interact with the body. Pharmaceutical scientists play a crucial role in bringing new drugs to market and improving public health.
What cities are hiring for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Pharmaceutical Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs? The top employers for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs? For Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,899 per year, or $42.7 per hour.
Pharmaceutical Scientist II (Pharmaceutical)

Pharmaceutical Scientist II (Pharmaceutical)

Actalent

Westerville, OH

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 hours ago


Job description

We are hiring a Quality Control Scientist II in the Pharmaceutical field here in the Columbus, Ohio area! This is a long-term career opportunity and we are looking for someone with a Bachelors or Masters Degree and at least 2-3 years of industry experience utilizing HPLC or GC.

Job Description

The QC Scientist II performs qualitative and quantitative chemical and physical testing for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), starting materials, packaging components, and finished products in a highly regulated environment. This role focuses on method validation, analytical investigations, and quality control activities using advanced instrumentation such as HPLC and GC. The position offers significant opportunities for growth in a fast-paced pharmaceutical manufacturing setting.

Responsibilities

  • Perform qualitative and quantitative chemical and physical testing in accordance with compendia and product specifications for APIs, starting materials, packaging components, and finished products.
  • Conduct sample preparation, including dilutions and other preparatory techniques, to support accurate and reliable analytical testing.
  • Perform peer review of analytical testing documentation, identify discrepancies, and work to resolve issues in a timely and compliant manner.
  • Complete and conduct required training according to the established laboratory curriculum and maintain ongoing competency in assigned methods and procedures.
  • Maintain laboratory data in an orderly and compliant manner in laboratory notebooks, worksheets, and electronic or paper-based documents.
  • Re-validate chemistry methods and support method transfer and optimization activities as needed.
  • Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including HPLC, GC, and wet chemistry equipment, and perform routine and advanced testing.
  • Author clear and detailed technical reports to support analytical method improvements, investigations, and changes to testing procedures.
  • Perform investigational and troubleshooting activities using advanced analytical techniques to support approved commercial analysis and resolve quality issues.
  • Apply knowledge of critical functions and variables for each type of equipment and demonstrate strong instrument troubleshooting ability.
  • Work independently while using a collaborative team approach to accomplish assigned tasks and project objectives.
  • Manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and compliance.
  • Communicate effectively in writing and verbally with colleagues in quality, manufacturing, and other cross-functional groups.
  • Support quality investigations and related documentation, contributing scientific judgment and professional competency to root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a scientific field, with a preference for Chemistry or Biochemistry.
  • 2–3+ years of industry laboratory experience with HPLC or GC.
Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Columbus, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 11, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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