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Senior R&D Chemist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MicroVention

Staff Chemist, Manufacturing

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$116K - $145K/yr

Support the manufacturing of chemistry based medical devices products by maintaining current processes and transferring new processes from R&D. The scope of work includes process and test method ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161K - $194K/yr

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a related field is a plus. * Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in research and development, including product and process development in a ...

The Gill Corporation

R & D Manager (85690)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$161.56 - $194.65/hr

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or a related field is a plus. * Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in research and development, including product and process development in a ...

GFF

R & D Product Development Specialist

La Puente, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

Designs & creates new products or alters & improves existing products; use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, & other sciences to study the principle underlying the processing & deterioration of ...

Pfizer, Inc.

Senior Computational Chemist

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$106K - $176K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Computational Chemist with a strong cheminformatics background and a proven ... Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Cheminformatics, Computer Science, or related fields; or M.S ...

Pfizer

Senior Computational Chemist

La Jolla, CA · On-site +1

$106K - $176K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Computational Chemist with a strong cheminformatics background and a proven ... Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry, Cheminformatics, Computer Science, or related fields; or M.S ...

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Senior R D Chemist information

See California salary details

$47.4K

$85.3K

$142.1K

How much do senior r&d chemist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior r&d chemist in California is $85,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior R&D Chemist do?

A Senior R&D Chemist leads research and development projects focused on creating new chemical products or improving existing ones. They design experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with other scientists and engineers to develop innovative solutions in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, materials, or consumer goods. Additionally, they often mentor junior chemists, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and contribute to patent applications or technical publications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior R&D Chemist?

To thrive as a Senior R&D Chemist, you need an advanced degree in chemistry or a related field, strong analytical skills, and extensive experience in laboratory research and experimental design. Familiarity with instrumentation such as HPLC, GC-MS, NMR, and proficiency in data analysis software are typically required, along with knowledge of relevant regulatory standards. Exceptional problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring accurate results, and effectively leading research projects within a collaborative scientific environment.

What are some common challenges Senior R&D Chemists face when transitioning from lab work to project leadership roles?

Senior R&D Chemists often encounter challenges such as balancing hands-on laboratory responsibilities with increased project management and team coordination. As they take on leadership roles, they must develop strong communication skills to effectively guide junior chemists and interface with cross-functional teams, including engineering and regulatory affairs. Additionally, managing multiple projects with tight deadlines and shifting priorities requires adaptability and strategic planning. Navigating these changes successfully opens up further opportunities for advancement within research and development or technical management.

What is the difference between Senior R&D Chemist vs R&D Chemist?

AspectSenior R&D ChemistR&D Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field; 3+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related field; entry-level to 2 years experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, collaborative teamsLaboratories, research projects, supervised tasks
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, chemicals, consumer goods companiesSimilar industries, often as entry or mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior R&D Chemist and an R&D Chemist lies in experience and responsibility. Senior R&D Chemists typically have more years of experience, take on leadership roles in projects, and contribute to strategic planning. R&D Chemists are often in earlier career stages, focusing on executing experiments and supporting research activities. Both roles require strong chemistry credentials and work in similar environments within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Senior R&D Chemist jobs in California?

For Senior R&D Chemist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior R&D Chemist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior R&D Chemist jobs in California are:

Senior R D Chemist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior R&D Chemist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,325 per year, or $41 per hour.

Associate R&D Chemist

San Fernando, CA

American Fruits & Flavors
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about American Fruits & Flavorsexternal

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

March 5, 2026 Associate R&D ChemistIf you love the ideaof turning curiosity into innovation and transforming raw materials into real-worldsolutions, this role is going to be your new playground. We're looking for anR&D Chemist who's ready to dive into product development, fine-tuneformulas, match competitive products, and help shape the next generation ofsolutions in our industry.General Description of DutiesThe R & D Chemist analyzes, develops, and improves existing and new products using existing and new raw materials and requires little to no supervision doing this work. Matches products supplied by customers and internal personnel from competitors. Calculates costing on all products developed. Directs the evaluation and testing of prototypes. May have some supervisory responsibility directing the work of Assistant and Associate R & D Chemists and technicians. Maintains contacts with Quality Control, Production, inter-company lab personnel, and Sales. Begins having some customer contact as well. This individual must maintain a positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in ways that foster good relationships with those inside and outside the company.Essential Job FunctionsMust demonstrate superior product development creativity.Develop and/or improve new and existing products including juice concentrates and flavors, based on defined customer or in-house requirements.Must taste all products developed.Begin to determine feasibility of certain projects based on company limitations.Perform costing analysis on all work performed.Create master formulas and compounding instructions as needed.Prepare product specification sheets for submission to customers.Begin to contact customers to determine their requirements with regard to product development.Develop products that meet or exceed customer applications.Begin to provide technical assistance to customers and brokers.Perform shelf-life studies and stability testing of products to ensure they meet our claims.Organize and establish guidelines, procedures and policies for handling all outgoing samples.Assist QC and Production in first-time production of all new products.Assume responsibility for all sample request inquiries in the absence of the R & D Manager.Regular, punctual attendance.Other duties and projects as required or assigned.RequirementsB. S. in Food Science or related science discipline.Minimum 4 years of experience as an R&D Chemist.Must demonstrate excellent taste and aroma sense acuity.Proficient in verbal and written English.Some supervisory experience and/or training.Must have visual acuity to evaluate sample appearance and use lab instruments.Must be able to lift and carry up to 15 pounds occasionally.Must report to any company facility according to company need, sometimes with same-day notice.LOCATION San Fernando, CADEPARTMENT R&DJOB TYPE ChemistSALARY RANGE $30 - 35 per hour Compensation Range: Actual salary/hourly wages are determined upon a variety of factors such as level of experience, skills, education and /or certifications, and location.

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