Production Chemist - Mid Shift- San Diego

PolyPeptide US•San Diego, CA

20d•Onsite

About The Position

PolyPeptide is seeking Production Chemists at levels I, II, and III to support the manufacture of high-quality Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in a cGMP-regulated environment. The role supports peptide manufacturing operations across upstream synthesis and downstream purification while maintaining compliance with cGMP, safety, and quality standards. It offers hands-on manufacturing experience and growth opportunities using peptide synthesis and purification technologies. Production Chemist I is an entry-level to early-career role working under general supervision, with a focus on executing established procedures, learning cGMP operations, and developing technical expertise. Production Chemist II is an experienced individual-contributor role with increasing autonomy, including troubleshooting deviations, supporting investigations and CAPAs, and training Chemist I team members. Production Chemist III is a senior technical-lead role that serves as a subject matter expert, makes operational decisions with Quality and leadership, leads troubleshooting and optimization, and supports planning and continuous improvement. The position is based in San Diego, California, in a hands-on manufacturing environment involving hazardous materials. The mid shift runs Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Salary ranges are $28–$33 per hour for Chemist I, $33–$37 per hour for Chemist II, and $37–$45 per hour for Chemist III.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent.
A high school diploma with significant GMP manufacturing experience may be considered for Chemist I.
Chemist I: 0–2 years of relevant experience; peptide manufacturing experience preferred.
Chemist II: 3 or more years of relevant experience in a regulated environment.
Chemist III: 5 or more years of relevant experience with demonstrated leadership and technical expertise.
Knowledge of peptide synthesis and purification, including HPLC.
Knowledge of cGMP documentation and compliance.
Ability to safely handle hazardous chemicals and reagents.
Strong communication, teamwork, and time-management skills.
Problem-solving ability and a continuous-improvement mindset.
Ability to wear a respirator and required PPE.
Ability to stand and walk regularly and lift up to 25 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Peptide manufacturing experience, particularly for Chemist I.

Responsibilities

Execute batch production records accurately and in compliance with SOPs and GxP requirements.
Operate and monitor chemical processes, including reactors, drying systems, purification HPLCs, and lyophilization.
Perform in-process controls and interpret analytical results, such as HPLC and ninhydrin tests.
Handle materials, manage inventory, and complete ERP documentation in accordance with ALCOA+ principles.
Maintain safety, cleanliness, PPE, and 5S standards.
Communicate with cross-functional teams, including QA, QC, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
For Chemist II and III: troubleshoot process deviations, support investigations, CAPAs, and quality documentation.
For Chemist II and III: train and mentor Chemist I team members and participate in process improvements, tech transfers, and scale-up activities.
For Chemist III: serve as a subject matter expert for processes and equipment; make operational go/no-go decisions with Quality and leadership.
For Chemist III: lead troubleshooting, process optimization, and mentoring of Chemist I and II staff; support production planning, forecasting, and continuous improvement initiatives.