QC Analytical Chemist I

Ascensus Specialties • Newburyport, MA

4h • $66,000 - $99,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Strem Chemicals, an Ascensus Specialties company, is seeking a detail-oriented QC Analytical Chemist I to join our Quality Control team in Newburyport, MA.

In this foundational role, you will perform essential laboratory testing on drug substances and products using advanced instrumentation, including HPLC, FTIR, and UV/VIS. Working within a cGMP-regulated environment, you will support stability protocols and method validation studies while maintaining rigorous safety and documentation standards. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career analytical professional to build a path in pharmaceutical quality and technical excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry is required.
• 1–3 years of experience in a cGMP-regulated environment, such as the pharmaceutical or personal care industries, is preferred.
• Familiarity with FTIR, HPLC, and UV/VIS is preferred; specific experience with Empower software is a significant plus.
• Solid foundational knowledge of cGMP, CFR, and ICH guidelines.
• Ability to define problems, collect and interpret data, and draw valid, fact-based conclusions.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize workflow, and consistently meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance immediate laboratory needs against long-term operational goals.
• Ability to work effectively as an independent contributor while successfully collaborating within various teams and committees.

Nice To Haves

• A Bachelor’s degree in a related scientific discipline (e.g., Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering) will be considered when paired with relevant industry experience.

Responsibilities

• Maintain personal accountability for a safe work environment by following all EHS procedures, participating in safety training, and proactively reporting incidents or unsafe conditions. You will ensure all work areas remain clean and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform QC testing of drug substances and products using HPLC, UV/VIS, KF, Melting Point, and FTIR instrumentation, following both established and emerging methodologies.
• Assist in project development to create novel analytical methodologies for product analysis.
• Support the design and execution of protocols for method validation studies.
• Execute accelerated and real-time stability protocols for internal and client-specific products.
• Maintain and audit calibration and qualification records for laboratory instrumentation, equipment, and supplies.
• Partner with the technical team to facilitate the pre-approval and release of manufactured and resale products based on set specifications.
• Collaborate with QC, QA, and Technical departments to establish product specifications and technical data sheets within the ERP system.
• Support technical teams in resolving complaints and provide technical guidance to the packaging and warehouse departments as required.
• Perform additional duties of similar complexity to support laboratory and business needs.
• Other duties as assigned by Quality Manager.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
• Company-provided Life and AD&D insurance, along with Short-term and Long-term Disability coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counseling and resources.
• Eligibility begins the first day of the month following your hire date.
• 100% match on the first 3% of employee contributions.
• An additional 70% match ($0.70 on the dollar) on contributions between 3% and 6%.
• 120 hours annually (pro-rated based on hire date), with increases based on tenure as outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Provided in accordance with the Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law.
• 9 paid holidays per calendar year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level