Scientist I, Formulation

Thermo Fisher Scientific • Rockford, IL

9d • $24 - $36

About The Position

As a Scientist I, Formulation at Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will perform formulation and manufacturing activities in a GMP/ISO-regulated environment using laboratory and cleanroom equipment. The role focuses on safely and efficiently producing and analyzing large-scale formulations in tanks ranging from 50 to 5,000 liters, executing established production protocols under the direction of senior personnel, and meeting production schedule and quality goals. You will conduct in-process analyses, troubleshoot and improve production and testing methods, clean and assemble or disassemble equipment, maintain a safe and clean work environment, and document operations in batch records, reports, and laboratory notebooks. The position may also involve assisting Quality Control, Packaging, or other departments and contributing to cross-functional improvement and new-product projects. Work takes place in a laboratory and cleanroom setting and includes required PPE, handling hazardous or toxic materials, and physical handling of heavy equipment and materials.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or a related scientific field; alternatively, the posting specifies more than five years of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience.
• Undergraduate-level understanding of chemistry and general laboratory practices.
• Expertise in aseptic techniques and GMP manufacturing practices.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment, analytical methods, and instrumentation.
• Proficiency in documentation practices and batch record completion.
• Experience with quality systems and regulatory compliance, including GMP and ISO.
• Problem-solving ability and attention to detail.
• Ability to organize and process several tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and laboratory software systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to routinely lift 50–60 pounds, handle drums and large-scale solids, and set up and use large-scale equipment.
• Ability to manipulate moderately heavy equipment, including drum carts, gas cylinders, balances, and filled carboys.
• Ability to work while wearing required PPE and comply with workplace safety protocols.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to changing priorities.
• Acceptance of constructive feedback and coachability.
• Demonstrated drive for personal, professional, and departmental improvement.
• Knowledge of data analysis and basic statistical methods.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including possible shift work.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred fields of study include Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Mechanical aptitude is highly desired.
• Prior experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology manufacturing, formulation development, or related laboratory work is listed as not required in the opening qualification, though more than five years of relevant biotech or pharmaceutical industry experience is offered as an alternative to the degree requirement.

Responsibilities

• Manufacture large-scale Thermo Fisher Scientific product formulations in 50-, 100-, 500-, and 5,000-liter tanks.
• Execute production procedures according to established protocols and under the direction of senior personnel.
• Perform in-process formulation analyses using common methods, including pH and UV/VIS.
• Clean, assemble, and disassemble equipment and maintain a safe, clean work environment.
• Maintain process documentation through batch record sheets, reports, and laboratory notebooks.
• Assist with continuous improvement of production and test methods.
• Participate in cross-functional projects, including PPI, 5S, Lean, and new-product introductions.
• Meet production goals for schedule and quality.
• Occasionally assist Quality Control, Packaging, and other departments, or perform other assigned duties.
• Follow safety requirements and ISO production environment guidelines; complete required hazardous-waste training if job activities involve hazardous waste.

Benefits

• Variable annual bonus may be available based on company, team, and/or individual performance.
• Choice of national medical and dental plans and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs.
• Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement.
• At least 120 hours of paid time off and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Paid parental leave, including 3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave.
• Accident and life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy.
• Competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan.
• Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount.

What This Job Offers

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