Job Information
Actalent Analytical Chemist in Vernon Hills, Illinois
Job Title: Analytical Chemist
Job Description
The Analytical Chemist supports quality control testing of cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and medical device products by performing a wide range of analytical tasks for both Quality Control (QC) and Research & Development (R&D). This role focuses primarily on running HPLC and GC testing, along with other analytical techniques, to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
Responsibilities
Conduct chemical analysis on raw materials, finished goods, stability samples, and R&D samples to support product development and quality control.
Perform routine and non-routine testing using HPLC, GC, and related analytical instrumentation in accordance with established methods and procedures.
Follow all procedures related to data documentation, laboratory safety, and good laboratory practices to maintain high-quality and compliant work standards.
Accurately record, organize, and maintain test data, observations, and results in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
Review test data, calculations, and results for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to specifications before reporting or releasing results.
Interpret and apply USP and other compendial methods to laboratory testing, adjusting techniques as needed to meet method requirements.
Support method development, method transfer, and method validation activities as needed for QC and R&D projects.
Identify malfunctions or performance issues in laboratory equipment and either advise a supervisor or perform basic repairs and calibrations when appropriate.
Maintain laboratory instruments and equipment in good working order, including routine cleaning, calibration, and performance checks.
Participate in general laboratory upkeep, including cleaning, waste disposal, and maintaining an organized and safe work area.
Collaborate closely with other chemists, lab technicians, and cross-functional teams to troubleshoot testing issues and support project timelines.
Adhere to all applicable regulatory, safety, and quality standards while working with pharmaceutical, medical device, and cosmetic products.
Essential Skills
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.
2 to 5 years of experience working in a laboratory environment, specifically within chemistry.
At least 1 year of hands-on experience with HPLC, GC, and LC/LC-MS techniques.
Demonstrated experience with wet chemistry techniques in a laboratory setting.
Proficiency in chromatographic methods, including HPLC, GC, LC, and related analytical techniques.
Ability to interpret and apply USP and other compendial methods to testing activities.
Strong understanding of good laboratory practices and laboratory safety procedures.
Proven ability to review and verify test data, calculations, and results for accuracy and completeness.
Experience working with life science products, preferably in pharmaceutical or medical device environments.
Solid organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tests and priorities in a fast-paced lab.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, reliable analytical results.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vernon Hills, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $35.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Vernon Hills,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 4, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.