Analytical Chemistry Principal Scientist

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking a Principal Scientist for a direct-hire (permanent) position with one of our pharmaceutical partners. This position offers the opportunity to provide advanced analytical support across multiple development projects, lead method development and validation efforts, and contribute to the successful scale‑up of processes to commercial manufacturing—all within a collaborative, cGMP‑compliant environment.

Schedule: Full-time, day shift
Travel: Limited, as needed
Salary Range: $100,000–$115,000/year

• Develop, establish, and validate analytical testing methodologies for raw materials, intermediates, and final products.
• Evaluate, interpret, and report analytical data to support process development and quality initiatives.
• Participate in cross‑functional teams to investigate and resolve analytical and technical challenges.
• Operate and maintain key analytical instrumentation, including HPLC, GC, GC/MS, FTIR, Titrator, and Particle Size Analyzer.
• Write and review technical reports, method validation protocols, and analytical transfer documentation.
• Ensure full compliance with cGMP, SOPs, and DEA regulations across all analytical operations.
• Transfer analytical methods to Quality Control and Process Support departments.
• Coordinate off‑site testing and qualification of reference materials as needed.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and uphold the highest standards of data integrity and safety.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance analytical efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field with a minimum of 6 years of experience;
• or M.S. with at least 10 years;
• or B.S. with at least 14 years of laboratory experience (pharmaceutical experience strongly preferred).
• Demonstrated success in analytical method development, validation, and transfer.
• Proven ability to support commercial‑scale manufacturing through analytical expertise.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

• Hands‑on experience with HPLC, GC, GC/MS, FTIR, Titrator, and Particle Size Analyzer.
• Strong understanding of cGMP requirements and analytical documentation standards.
• Expertise in data interpretation, troubleshooting, and analytical problem‑solving.
• Proficiency in standard laboratory software and data reporting tools (e.g., Empower, Chem Station, Excel).

• Experience with method transfer to Quality Control and Process Support groups.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and regulatory documentation.
• Experience with reference material qualification and off‑site analytical coordination.

• Upholds a culture of quality, compliance, and scientific excellence.
• Communicates clearly and professionally across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrates strong analytical judgment and attention to detail.
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Committed to continuous learning and process improvement.

• Must be able to work in a laboratory environment and comply with all safety and DEA requirements.

Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short‑term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. Employees are entitled to paid sick leave under applicable state or local plans.

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce.

Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.