Senior Scientist, Chemistry

MSD

Senior Scientist advancing analytical chemistry for Merck’s global pharmaceutical manufacturing network. Developing methods, troubleshooting laboratory workflows, and supporting compliant drug-substance supply.

Posted 8/7/2026full-timeRahway • New Jersey, Pennsylvania • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $117,000 - $184,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in analytical techniques, including chromatography and spectroscopy, with a strong foundation in synthetic organic chemistry and API development. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, ensure compliance with cGMP standards, and effectively communicate technical information.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Analytical TechniquesChromatographySpectroscopyCGMP KnowledgeData Integrity

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Analytical ProceduresValidation ProtocolsTechnical ReportsExperimental DesignsRegulatory Submission DocumentsProblem-SolvingRisk-Management PlansAPI DevelopmentDrug Substance DevelopmentProduct Specifications

Soft Skills

Strong Verbal CommunicationStrong Written CommunicationInterpersonal SkillsCultural SensitivitySelf-Motivated

Industry Keywords

Pharmaceutical DevelopmentContract Manufacturing OrganizationsContract Research OrganizationsCross-Functional TeamsWorld Class Supplier

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Author analytical procedures, development and validation protocols and reports, technical reports, experimental designs, and regulatory submission documents
Perform investigations and technical troubleshooting
Provide documentation and technical input during regulatory and internal inspections and audits
Apply working knowledge of data integrity
Train staff on analytical techniques and problem solving as needed
Influence external sites in the worldwide manufacturing network to identify, implement, and troubleshoot laboratory test methods, workflows, and materials
Support compliant, robust, and responsive supply
Drive lead-time reduction and efficiency gains supporting World Class Supplier and Operationalizing Quality goals

Requirements

What you’ll need

MS in Chemistry or related discipline with at least 5 years of relevant pharmaceutical development experience, or PhD in Analytical Chemistry or related discipline
Working knowledge of analytical techniques used in commercial testing of raw materials, intermediates, and drug substances
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Flexibility to work in a dynamic environment with internal and external communications
Strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity
Self-motivated ownership and accountability for issues through completion
Ability to adapt quickly to changes and develop risk-management plans
Willingness to travel abroad
Knowledge of developing analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectroscopy and product specifications for drug substance development and registration
Fundamental knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry
Working knowledge of API development and commercialization
Experience with contract manufacturing organizations and/or contract research organizations
Experience working in cross-functional teams
Strong technical background, problem-solving skills, leadership abilities, cGMP knowledge, and data integrity knowledge

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual bonus
Long-term incentive, if applicable
Medical, dental, and vision healthcare
Other insurance benefits for employee and family
Retirement benefits, including 401(k)
Paid holidays
Vacation
Compassionate days
Sick days
Visa sponsorship
Relocation: Domestic