Pharmaceutical QC Chemist

About the role

First Priority, Inc. is the animal health industry's premier manufacturer and supplier of generic pharmaceutical products located in Elgin, IL. We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Pharmaceutical QC Chemist to join our team and ensure lab operations run efficiently while meeting customer expectations.

Responsibilities

• Analyze raw materials, finished products, and stability samples by HPLC and other specialized testing methodologies, including proper documentation of all test results.
• Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.
• Prepare test solutions, compounds, standards, or reagents for lab use.
• Use general lab instrumentation such as pipettes, burettes, balances, and pH meters.
• Test samples supporting process validations and cleaning validations, including proper documentation of all test results.
• Provide support for the complete testing of raw material/vendor qualification.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis to ensure products meet quality standards set by regulatory bodies and company standards.
• Utilize scientific knowledge and techniques to accurately perform testing.
• Follow established procedures to ensure consistency and accuracy of results.
• Troubleshoot and report any issues with testing results.
• Document and maintain accurate records of all testing.
• Communicate effectively to provide updates on the status of testing.
• Ensure compliance with all safety and quality regulations.
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory workspace.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas to improve quality and efficiency.
• Maintain and qualify reference standards.
• Procure lab supplies, chemicals, glassware, and equipment.
• Follow proper health and safety guidelines (e.g., PPE, safety regulations).
• Adhere to company policies and procedures at all times.
• Perform other duties and special assignments as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum BS degree in Chemistry or related field.
• 0-3 years’ experience in a QC lab setting, preferably in pharmaceuticals but not required.
• Experience with HPLC analysis preferable but not required.
• Experience using Empower software preferable but not required.
• Familiarity with USP/NF and other compendia preferable but not required.
• Experience in wet chemistry with some use of instruments.

Skills

• Ability to multi-task running equipment and documenting data.
• Perform mathematical calculations by hand or with software.
• Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot problems.
• Ability to follow directions to accurately perform tests.

Work Environment

• Lab environment involving chemicals, solvents, gasses, and glassware.
• Laboratory bench work and documentation.
• Working independently with minimal supervision.
• Low to medium noise level.
• Temperature-controlled environment.

Tools and Equipment

• Computer to create or update forms and documents used in the lab.
• Phone, fax machine, and copy machine.
• HPLC systems, UV/VIS spectrophotometer, IR spectrophotometer.
• Dissolution apparatus, viscometer, conductivity/pH meter, Karl Fisher, TLC apparatus, GC instrument.
• Furnace, ovens, burners, balances, pH meter, stir plates, hot plates, moisture meter.
• Use of burettes for titrations and lab glassware such as flasks, beakers, graduated cylinders.
• Various other instruments and apparatus.
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (when necessary).

Training

• On-the-job training: MSDS/Hazardous Awareness.
• cGMP training.
• Training to conduct tests for the release of raw materials, stability samples, and finished products.
• Training on IR spectrophotometer, UV/VIS spectrophotometer, HPLC, and other instruments.
• Training on complete testing of raw materials as per compliance requirements.
• Training on appropriate SOPs per department requirements.

Schedule

Tuesday through Friday, 10-hour shift schedule.