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How much do small molecule jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for small molecule in the United States is $45.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.98 and $50.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in small molecule drug discovery roles?

Professionals in small molecule drug discovery often encounter challenges such as optimizing compound properties for both efficacy and safety, troubleshooting synthetic routes, and navigating the complexities of multi-disciplinary project teams. Balancing rapid project timelines with regulatory requirements and maintaining meticulous documentation are also crucial aspects of the role. Collaboration with biologists, pharmacologists, and analytical scientists is routine, making strong communication essential. Overcoming these challenges is rewarding and directly contributes to advancing new therapies from concept to clinical evaluation.

What is a small molecule?

A Small Molecule job typically involves research, development, manufacturing, or regulatory work related to small-molecule drugs, which are chemically synthesized compounds used in pharmaceuticals. Professionals in this field may work in drug discovery, formulation, process development, or quality control. Roles can be found in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and regulatory agencies, focusing on optimizing drug efficacy, safety, and production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the small molecule position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Small Molecule position, such as a Small Molecule Scientist or Chemist, you need a strong background in organic or medicinal chemistry, analytical techniques, and drug discovery processes, often supported by a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation like HPLC, NMR, and mass spectrometry, as well as proficiency in data analysis software and adherence to GLP or GMP guidelines, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities are highly valued. These strengths enable precise experimental execution, rigorous data interpretation, and successful collaboration in developing new therapeutic compounds.

More about Small Molecule jobs
What cities are hiring for Small Molecule jobs? Cities with the most Small Molecule job openings:
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Small Molecule jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Molecule job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,688 per year, or $45 per hour.

Sr. Patent Agent- Small Molecule

Neurocrine Biosciences

San Diego, CA • On-site

$136K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:

Neurocrine Biosciencesis a leading biopharmaceutical company with a simple purpose: to relieve suffering for people with great needs. We are dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing life-changing treatments for patients with under-addressed neurological, psychiatric, endocrine and immunological disorders. The company's diverse portfolio includes FDA-approved treatments for tardive dyskinesia, chorea associated with Huntington's disease, classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperphagia in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome, endometriosis* and uterine fibroids*, as well as a robust pipeline including multiple compounds in mid- to late-phase clinical development across our core therapeutic areas. For more than three decades, we have applied our unique insight into neuroscience and the interconnections between brain and body systems to treat complex conditions. We relentlessly pursue medicines to ease the burden of debilitating diseases and disorders, because you deserve brave science. For more information, visitneurocrine.com, and follow the company onLinkedIn,X, Facebook and YouTube. (*in collaboration with AbbVie)


About the Role:Provides intellectual property support for Small Molecule research and development programs by independently drafting and prosecuting patent applications, contributing to the development and execution of global patent strategies, and managing patent activities for assigned programs. Partners cross-functionally with research, development, and legal stakeholders to protect Company innovations and advance business objectives.

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Your Contributions (include, but are not limited to):

  • Your Contributions (include, but are not limited to):

  • Serves as the primary intellectual property partner for assigned Small Molecule programs, providing independent patent counseling and partnering with cross-functional teams to protect Company innovations

  • Identifies inventions in collaboration with members of various discovery and development groups within the Company

  • Drafts, files and prosecutes U.S. and international patent applications relating to small molecule drugs and other chemistry programs that are strategically aligned with the Company's business objectives

  • Works and interacts with collaborators and other external strategic partners to implement global patent strategies

  • Assists with strategic IP due diligence, including conducting prior art and patent searches and analyzing the patent portfolios of competitors and potential collaborators

  • Reviews proposed publications and analyzes potential impact on the Company's patent portfolio and intellectual property

  • Responsible for managing/handling multiple patent prosecution matters and seeing projects through to conclusion

  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

  • PhD in organic chemistry or a related discipline with relevant academic and applied experience

  • Relevant experience must include in-house and/or nationally recognized law firm patent experience related to small molecule drugs or other biologically active organic compounds

  • Expertise in preparing patent applications directed to small molecule drugs, or other biologically active organic compounds

  • Registered to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office

  • Demonstrates a strong understanding of patent prosecution processes and applies sound judgment in managing intellectual property matters. Ability to work as part of a team; may train lower levels

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and technology platforms used to support patent prosecution and intellectual property portfolio management

  • Strong communications, problem-solving, analytical thinking skills

  • Detail oriented with the ability to understand the broader impact of intellectual property decisions on supported programs. Ability to meet multiple and aggressive deadlines across a variety of projects/programs, with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency

  • Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple patent matters while balancing shifting priorities and aggressive timelines

#LI-TM1

Neurocrine Biosciences is an EEO/Disability/Vets employer.

We are committed to building a workplace of belonging, respect, and empowerment, and we recognize there are a variety of ways to meet our requirements. We are looking for the best candidate for the job and encourage you to apply even if your experience or qualifications don't line up to exactly what we have outlined in the job description.

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The annual base salary we reasonably expect to pay is $136,300.00-$186,000.00. Individual pay decisions depend on various factors, such as primary work location, complexity and responsibility of role, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. In addition, this position offers an annual bonus with a target of 20% of the earned base salary and eligibility to participate in our equity based long term incentive program. Benefits offered include a retirement savings plan (with company match), paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

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