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Pharmaceutical Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Envista

Research Scientist

Pomona, CA · On-site

This role requires strong scientific skills, independent execution of research plans, and ... pharmaceutical industry, at least 5 years in the dental industry required. * Master's degree in ...

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How much do pharmaceutical scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical scientist in Riverside, CA is $44.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.59 and $55.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pharmaceutical scientist?

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.

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 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.

Does a pharmaceutical scientist pay well?

Pharmaceutical scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $70,000 annually, while experienced professionals can earn over $120,000, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills in drug development and research environments.

What jobs can I get with pharmaceutical scientist?

A pharmaceutical scientist can pursue roles such as drug researcher, formulation scientist, quality control analyst, regulatory affairs specialist, or clinical research associate. These positions often require knowledge of laboratory techniques, regulatory standards, and data analysis, and may involve working in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or research organizations.
More about Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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For Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Pharmaceutical Scientist job openings:

Pharmaceutical Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Scientist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,746 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Associate Director, Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Delivery)

Tarsus Pharmaceuticals

Irvine, CA • Hybrid

$227K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Reporting to the Sr. Director, Pharmaceutical Sciences, the Associate Director, Pharmaceutical Sciences (Drug Delivery) will lead and execute innovative drug delivery and formulation strategies to support pre-IND product development, candidate selection, and novel delivery platform advancement. The incumbent will drive scientific and technical direction for formulation & delivery approaches across modalities, strengthen the company's IP portfolio, and collaborate with cross-functional teams (Innovation Lab, Translational Sciences, Pharmaceutical Development, Analytical Development) to enable successful transition from concept to candidate selection.

Let's talk about some of the key responsibilities of the role:

  • Develop and lead delivery sciences strategy for new and emerging modalities (small molecules, biologics, peptides)
  • Identify white space opportunities and contribute to invention disclosures and patent strategy in partnership with IP counsel.
  • Evaluate competitive landscape and emerging delivery technologies to inform internal innovation strategy.
  • Design, execute, interpret laboratory results to develop and optimize novel drug delivery systems, and define data-driven next steps to drive platform development.
  • Generate formulation and delivery approaches to enable pre-clinical animal models.
  • With the Translational Sciences team interpret in vitro and in vivo data (PK/PD, bio-distribution, tolerability) to refine and prioritize delivery strategies.
  • Represent delivery sciences in program governance and external partnerships.
  • Serve as scientific lead for external CRO partnerships.
  • R&D project budget planning and budget management.
  • May perform other related duties as required and/or assigned.

Factors for Success:

  • Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in drug delivery and developing novel drug delivery platforms from concept through preclinical validation.
  • Experience managing CROs and external research collaborations.
  • Strong experimental design, data interpretation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Track record of platform innovation and contribution to patents in drug delivery.
  • Excellent communication skills with ability to present complex technical concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders.
  • Strong leadership skills and experience in cross-functional project leadership.
  • Tarsus Competencies:
    • Decision Making - Demonstrates strong decision-making by applying structured analysis to complex challenges, balancing competing priorities and long-term impacts while engaging stakeholders and driving solutions aligned with organizational goals.
    • Collaboration and Team Building - Promotes collaboration by aligning diverse teams around shared goals, fostering healthy debate to advance outcomes, and building strong networks that strengthen organizational effectiveness and cross-team learning.
    • Outcome Driven - Demonstrates strong outcomes focus by aligning teams around shared priorities, proactively addressing risks and dependencies, and driving cross-functional accountability to sustain progress and deliver results.

 A Few Other Details Worth Mentioning:

  • The position will be based in our beautiful Irvine office, complete with onsite gym, pool, snacks, drinks, and occasional catered meals. We provide a hybrid work environment.
  • We are passionate about our culture! Our Tarsans live our values of commitment to patients, empowerment to champion innovation, and teamwork to amplify impact!
  • This position reports directly to our Sr. Director, Pharmaceutical Sciences.
  • Some travel may be required - up to 20%.

At Tarsus, we understand the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. The expected base pay range for this position is $150,000 - $210,000 plus bonus, stock equity, and comprehensive benefits. The base pay range reflects the target range for this position, but individual pay will be determined by additional factors such as job-related skills, experience and relevant education or training. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance benefits to ensure your well-being. We believe in work-life balance and offer generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days. For more details regarding Tarsus benefits, please visit: https://eb.alliant.com/26tarsusbenefitssnapshot.

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