1

Senior Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Scientist I (ARD)

Durham, NC

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong ... Communicates issues or challenges to senior staff and/or management * May review test data acquired ...

Sr. Scientist II (PRD))

Durham, NC · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global ...

Sr. Scientist II (PRD))

Durham, NC · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global ...

Description Sr. Scientist Reports To: Director, R&D Microbiology Position Summary Contributes, with technical and scientific expertise to the design and development of high quality products on time ...

Sr. Scientist II (PRD))

Durham, NC · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global ...

Sr. Process Engineer/Sr. Scientist

Durham, NC · On-site

$94K - $121K/yr

Job Summary The Sr. Process Engineer/Senior Scientist will lead late-stage development activities for topical and liquid oral pharmaceutical products, including process scale-up, technology transfer ...

Sr. Process Engineer/Sr. Scientist

Durham, NC · On-site

$94K - $121K/yr

Job Summary The Sr. Process Engineer/Senior Scientist will lead late-stage development activities for topical and liquid oral pharmaceutical products, including process scale-up, technology transfer ...

Description Sr. Scientist Reports To: Director, R&D Microbiology Position Summary Contributes, with technical and scientific expertise to the design and development of high quality products on time ...

Sr. Scientist Reports To: Director, R&D Microbiology Position Summary Contributes, with technical and scientific expertise to the design and development of high quality products on time, within ...

Description Sr. Scientist Reports To: Director, R&D Microbiology Position Summary Contributes, with technical and scientific expertise to the design and development of high quality products on time ...

Pioneering science to create transformative molecular medicines. Our mission: Lead innovative science and drive clinical outcomes to transform people's lives. Our principles: * Advance innovative ...

Pioneering science to create transformative molecular medicines. Our mission: Lead innovative science and drive clinical outcomes to transform people's lives. Our principles: * Advance innovative ...

TALENT PIPELINE - Sr. Scientist I (ARD)

Durham, NC · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong ... Communicates issues or challenges to senior staff and/or management * May review test data acquired ...

TALENT PIPELINE - Sr. Scientist I (ARD)

Durham, NC · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong ... Communicates issues or challenges to senior staff and/or management * May review test data acquired ...

Position Summary The Scientist III/ Sr. Scientist is responsible for developing and validating analytical methods to support drug formulation development in a GMP-compliant laboratory. This role ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Scientist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$64.6K

$107.5K

$159.9K

How much do senior scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior scientist in Raleigh, NC is $107,452.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,900.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior scientist?

A senior scientist is a research professional who oversees a lab or the development of a research project and directs other scientists and assistants to carry out tasks on the project. In an academic setting, your duties and responsibilities also include overseeing doctoral dissertations and teaching classes. As a senior scientist, you can work in many industries outside academia, including the pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and medical products industries. Due to the variety of employment options, your exact duties can change from job to job.

What does a senior scientist do?

Senior Scientists play a crucial role in cross-functional teams by providing deep subject-matter expertise, designing experiments, and interpreting complex data to drive project outcomes. They often collaborate closely with research associates, project managers, and professionals from regulatory, quality, and manufacturing departments. Effective communication and the ability to translate scientific findings for non-technical stakeholders are essential aspects of their daily work. This collaborative environment allows Senior Scientists to influence project direction and mentor junior team members while advancing their own leadership skills.

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

To thrive as a Senior Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific field, a relevant Ph.D. or equivalent experience, and a strong track record of research accomplishments. Familiarity with laboratory management software, data analysis tools, and often regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you lead teams, collaborate across disciplines, and secure funding. These abilities are crucial for driving innovative research, ensuring rigorous scientific standards, and advancing organizational goals.

What is the difference between Senior Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectSenior ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically PhD in relevant field, extensive research experienceUsually Master's or PhD, early to mid-career research experience
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, mentors junior staff, collaborates across teamsConducts experiments, data analysis, supports research projects
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, academia, R&D divisionsUniversities, research institutes, industry R&D

In summary, Senior Scientists generally have more experience, leadership responsibilities, and mentorship roles compared to Research Scientists, who focus more on conducting experiments and supporting research activities.

How much does a senior scientist earn?

A senior scientist's salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on industry, location, experience, and education level. They often have advanced degrees and specialized skills in research, data analysis, or laboratory techniques, which can influence compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Senior Scientist jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Senior Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Scientist job openings in Raleigh, NC 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 $107,452 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

$86K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Cambrex rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Information

You Matter to Cambrex.

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance development and manufacturing across the entire drug lifecycle, as well as comprehensive analytical and IND enabling services. 

With over 40 years of experience and a team of 2,000 experts servicing global clients from North America and Europe, Cambrex offers a range of specialized drug substance technologies and capabilities, including continuous flow, controlled substances, liquid-phase peptide synthesis, solid-state science, material characterization, and highly potent APIs.

Your Work Matters.

At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to:

  • engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve
  • learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment
  • strengthen connections with coworkers and the community

We’re committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company.  We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!

Your Future Matters.

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!


Job Overview

This role is a hands-on laboratory position focused on performing analytical testing of raw materials, intermediate materials, and drug substances supporting late-stage clinical and commercial pharmaceutical programs. Approximately 80% of the role is dedicated to laboratory bench work, with a strong emphasis on generating high-quality, accurate, and compliant analytical data.

Primary responsibilities include release testing, in-process and homogeneity testing, stability testing, and reference standard qualification activities using a variety of analytical techniques. The role is heavily focused on HPLC/UPLC analysis, with additional opportunities to utilize GC, Karl Fischer (KF), ion chromatography (IC), and other analytical methods.

The successful candidate will also support method transfers, validation activities, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing analytical methods and supporting method lifecycle management.

Candidates should possess strong attention to detail, adaptability in a dynamic laboratory environment, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Experience with chromatography systems and data management software such as Empower is highly desirable. Team members typically develop expertise in liquid chromatography techniques first, with opportunities to expand into GC, KF, and other analytical platforms based on project and business needs.


Responsibilities
  • Execute analytical methods for in-process control, release testing and stability
    monitoring of bulk drug substances and drug products under cGMP guidelines
  • Independently develop and evaluate methodologies, design and implement experiments.
  • Participates in experimental design, including development of methods and testing
    requirements to demonstrate method suitability.
  •  Maintains compliant records with little or no supervision
  • Able to write technical documents with assistance
  • Strong understanding and proficiency in use and maintenance of instrumentation,
    equipment, and scientific methodologies necessary to perform assigned tasks
  •  Perform assigned tasks carefully, safely and on schedule according to SOPs and
    supervisor instructions
  •  Sets up various instrumentation for testing according to written test methods and with
    little to no supervision.
  • As needed, troubleshoots laboratory instrumentation
  • Leads a sample project with assistance
  • May participate in client level meetings, with approval
  • May lead and develop other team members.
  •  May advise clients on site procedures.
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with cGMP and other regulatory guidelines.
  • Analyze information for technical correctness and accuracy
  • Compile, maintain, interpret and extrapolate data on results of analysis and
    communicate these results to supervisor
  • Perform routine laboratory procedures in a timely and efficient manner
  • Gain familiarization with analytical techniques
  • Participate cGMP activities
  • Provides input on SOPs and client questions
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and supplies as directed
  • May support peer-led laboratory investigations process with assistance
  • Maintain a clean and safe work-space
  • Maintain laboratory notebook and/or computer files (i.e. LIMS) according to standard,
    accepted practices
  • Participate in group and project meetings as required
  • Enter project hours promptly and update project status on appropriate tracking and/or
    timekeeping systems
  • Attend seminars as required
  • Participate in and comply with all current safety, health and environmental programs
  • Shows initiative and interest in learning new techniques and tests
  • Participates in technical discussions and brainstorming sessions
  • Communicates issues or challenges to senior staff and/or management
  • May review test data acquired by others and witness others’ notebooks
  • Assists with writing technical documentation such as OOS, atypical investigations,
    deviations and CAPAs
  •  Assists with writings standard operating procedures (SOPs), methods, qualification
    protocols and other standard documents as directed
  •  Provides input on SOPs and client questions
  •  With guidance, prepares well written and organized development reports
  •  Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills
  • Working knowledge of experimental design, including chemistry supporting method
    development
  • Working knowledge of analytical techniques and instrumentation such as NMR, IR, MS
    and HPLC.
  • Working exposure to cross functional techniques including organic chemistry.
  • Understands the chemical properties relating to method development, qualification
    /validation and troubleshooting.
  • Able to comply to SOPs and basic regulatory compliance
  • Working knowledge of scientific concepts, principles and procedures
  • Actively and positively engages with team and supports process improvements
  • Ability to read and execute compendial methodologies
  • Strong understanding of current FDA and cGMP regulations
  • General knowledge of chemistry and scientific calculations
  •  Hands on experience in analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, etc
  •  Basic computer skills
  •  Ability to operate laboratory equipment and computers
  •  Ability to take direction from experienced scientists and contributes in a team
     environment
  •  Good problem-solving skills
  •  Good attention to details
  •  Can repeat and follow detailed scientific procedures with supervision
  •  Able to clearly present results verbally in group meetings and in written progress reports
  •  Routinely and effectively presenting findings to clients
  •  Good interpersonal skills and is willing to ask questions about procedures and concepts
  •  Aptitude and willingness to gain more skills and knowledge in support of GMP
    regulations
  •  Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Familiarity with computer software such as Empower ChemDraw, Microsoft Word,
    PowerPoint, and Excel.
  •  Aptitude and willingness to gain more skills & knowledge.
  • Good attention to detail and good problem-solving skills.

Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements
 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant pharmaceutical, biotech, or analytical laboratory experience; or
 
  • Master’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with a minimum of 2 years of relevant pharmaceutical, biotech, or analytical laboratory experience.
 
  • This position is designed for candidates with significant hands-on laboratory testing experience in a GMP-regulated environment.

Supervision Received:
Works under limited supervision.


Physical Demands, Work Environment, and Travel:
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.


While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to
finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear and smell. The employee is
frequently required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk and stoop,
The employee must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally
lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required.


Environment and Protective Equipment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee
encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations
may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving
mechanical parts and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually very quiet.
Travel:
Little to no expected travel time.

Cambrex is committed to providing a safe and productive work environment. All offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a comprehensive pre-employment screen. The pre-employment screen may consist of several components including but not limited to a drug test, criminal record check, identity verification, reference checks, education and employment verification, and may vary based on federal, state, and local laws. Refusal to submit to testing will result in disqualification of further employment consideration. 

All requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Cambrex Corporation is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, age, marital status, disability/handicap, genetic information, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state, and/or local law.

 

Qualifications:
 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with a minimum of 6 years of relevant pharmaceutical, biotech, or analytical laboratory experience; or
 
  • Master’s degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with a minimum of 2 years of relevant pharmaceutical, biotech, or analytical laboratory experience.
 
  • This position is designed for candidates with significant hands-on laboratory testing experience in a GMP-regulated environment.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Cambrex employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Cambrex logo

About Cambrex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Rutherford, NJ, US

Year founded

1981

Social media