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Process Chemist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Agilent

Process Chemist

Folsom, CA · On-site

$132K - $207K/yr

Lead process performance evaluations, robustness studies, and root cause analysis to support ... Degree (BS) in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline ...

Agilent

Process Chemist

Folsom, CA

$132K - $207K/yr

Lead process performance evaluations, robustness studies, and root cause analysis to support ... Degree (BS) in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline ...

Caresoft Inc.

Manufacturing Process Chemist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Manufacturing Process Chemist Location: Carlsbad CA - 1st Shift Duration: 9 Months Summary: The Associate Process Group Chemist, in accordance with forecasted requirements, participates in the ...

ChampionX

Chemist

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

This Chemist position applies foundational chemical knowledge to perform laboratory testing ... Experience identifying and implementing process improvements that enhance laboratory efficiency ...

ChampionX

Chemist

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

This Chemist position applies foundational chemical knowledge to perform laboratory testing ... Experience identifying and implementing process improvements that enhance laboratory efficiency ...

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All JobsProcess Chemist JobsProcess Chemist Jobs in California

Process Chemist information

See California salary details

$40.5K

$83.7K

$129.3K

How much do process chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for process chemist in California is $83,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process chemist?

Process chemists are specialized scientists who develop, scale up, and optimize chemical processes for manufacturing products, such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. They work to ensure that these processes are efficient, cost-effective, and safe for large-scale production. Process chemists collaborate closely with chemical engineers and production teams to transition laboratory methods to industrial-scale operations, while also addressing environmental and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Process Chemist vs Analytical Chemist?

AspectProcess ChemistAnalytical Chemist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production facilitiesLaboratories, research settings
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, chemicals, manufacturingPharmaceuticals, environmental testing, quality control
Job FocusOptimizing production processes, scale-up, process improvementsAnalyzing samples, testing, method development

While both roles require a chemistry background, a Process Chemist focuses on manufacturing processes and scaling production, whereas an Analytical Chemist specializes in testing and analyzing samples to ensure quality and compliance. The roles often overlap in industries like pharmaceuticals and chemicals but differ in daily tasks and focus areas.

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

To thrive as a Process Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or chemical engineering, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Proficiency with laboratory instruments, process simulation software, and familiarity with safety and regulatory standards are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help distinguish successful candidates. These competencies ensure safe, efficient process development and scale-up, which are critical for producing high-quality chemical products.

How much do process chemists make in the US?

Process chemists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, with experienced professionals and those working in specialized industries earning higher. Salaries can vary based on education, experience, location, and the complexity of processes they manage.

What are some common challenges faced by process chemists when transferring a chemical process from the lab to full-scale manufacturing?

Process Chemists often encounter challenges when scaling up a reaction from the laboratory to production scale, such as maintaining product quality, ensuring safety, and optimizing yields. Variables like mixing, temperature control, and raw material variability can behave differently at larger volumes, requiring careful adjustment and troubleshooting. Close collaboration with chemical engineers, safety specialists, and production staff is essential to address these issues and ensure a smooth, efficient, and compliant manufacturing process.
What cities in California are hiring for Process Chemist jobs? Cities in California with the most Process Chemist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Process Chemist jobs in CA? For Process Chemist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Chemist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,672 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Process Chemist

Agilent

Folsom, CA • On-site

$132K - $207K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Agilent Technologies rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
  • Execute and oversee complex laboratory work, primarily GC, with complementary techniques (e.g., LC, LCMS, GCMS) to enable timely, customer-focused decision making in a manufacturing environment.
  • Provide on-floor and real-time troubleshooting as needed, prioritizing work to meet manufacturing schedules and ensuring timely, right-first-time resolution of analytical questions.
  • Design and execute statistically sound experiments (including DOE where appropriate), interpret complex datasets, and communicate clear, risk-based recommendations to manufacturing and quality stakeholders.
  • Lead process performance evaluations, robustness studies, and root cause analysis to support deviations, CAPA, complaints, and lifecycle improvements.
  • Partner cross-functionally with QC, QA, R&D, MSAT, and Global Operations to align analytical strategy with product requirements, control strategies, and operational priorities.
  • Lead and support complex investigations related to manufacturing events and customer complaints, applying structured problem-solving methodologies to determine root cause and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
  • Drive continuous improvement of chromatography capability, including equipment and instrument performance, preventative maintenance strategies, method robustness, and technical engagement with vendors as required.
  • Author, review, and approve high-quality technical documentation (e.g., protocols, validation and transfer reports, deviations/investigations, change controls), ensuring traceability, compliance, and data integrity.
  • Provide technical leadership through mentoring and coaching, influencing cross-functional teams and driving adoption of best practices in chromatography and laboratory execution.
  • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements, with a strong focus on good documentation practices and data integrity.

Qualifications
Qualifications
  • Degree (BS) in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
  • 8+ years of hands-on experience with gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (HPLC/UHPLC), including troubleshooting, validation, and supporting sample preparation techniques.
  • Broad working knowledge of analytical techniques and detectors (e.g., MS, UV, FID, ECD) with the ability to select fit-for-purpose analytical approaches.
  • Strong hands-on expertise in polymer/monomer synthesis and formulation within an industrial or pilot/manufacturing environment.
  • Proven ability to lead complex investigations and translate analytical data into clear, actionable technical recommendations.
  • Strong technical writing skills, with experience authoring protocols, validation documentation, and investigation reports.
  • Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety, quality systems, and data integrity.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
  • Experience with LCMS and/or GCMS for trace analysis, impurity profiling, and/or materials characterization. Additional analytical technique expertise (e.g., NMR, SEM, Karl Fischer, spectroscopy, microscopy) is a plus.
  • Knowledge of chromatography consumables (columns, stationary phases, sample preparation) and performance chemistry evaluations.
  • Experience working in GMP or regulated environments, including change control, deviations, CAPA, and inspection-ready documentation.
  • Experience with method validation, method transfer, and continued process/method verification; familiarity with DOE and statistical tools.

Additional Details
This job has a full time weekly schedule. Applications for this job will be accepted until at least June 8, 2026 or until the job is no longer posted.
The full-time equivalent pay range for this position is $132,851.00 - $207,580.00/yr plus eligibility for bonus, stock and benefits. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. During the hiring process, a recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for a preferred location. Pay and benefit information by country are available at: https://careers.agilent.com/locations
Agilent Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity and merit-based employer that values individuals of all backgrounds at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases. Agilent Technologies, Inc., is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive in the workplace where everyone is welcome, and strives to support candidates with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance with any part of the application or interview process or have questions about workplace accessibility, please email job_posting@agilent.com or contact +1-262-754-5030. For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please visit www.agilent.com/en/accessibility.
Travel Required:
Occasional
Shift:
Day
Duration:
No End Date
Job Function:
Manufacturing

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