Production Chemist

Location: San Diego, CA | Employment Type: Full-Time

PolyPeptide is seeking a Production Chemist (I, II, and III) to support the manufacture of high-quality Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in a cGMP-regulated environment. These roles are critical to our mission of delivering safe, effective, and on-time pharmaceutical products to patients worldwide.

Whether you are early in your career or an experienced chemist ready to lead, we offer a clear growth path, hands-on manufacturing experience, and the opportunity to work with advanced peptide synthesis and purification technologies.

What You’ll Do (All Levels)

As a Production Chemist, you will be responsible for executing and supporting peptide manufacturing operations across upstream synthesis and downstream purification, while maintaining strict compliance with cGMP, safety, and quality standards.

Core Responsibilities

• Execute batch production records (BPRs) accurately and in compliance with SOPs and GxP requirements
• Operate and monitor chemical processes including reactors, drying systems, purification HPLCs, and lyophilization
• Perform in-process controls (IPCs) and interpret analytical results (e.g., HPLC, ninhydrin tests)
• Ensure proper material handling, inventory management, and ERP documentation following ALCOA+ principles
• Maintain high standards of safety, cleanliness, PPE usage, and 5S practices
• Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams including QA, QC, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain

Level-Based Scope & Growth

Production Chemist I

Entry-level to early-career role with hands-on manufacturing responsibility. Works under general supervision following established procedures. Focused on execution, learning cGMP operations, and building technical expertise. Ideal for candidates new to peptide manufacturing or regulated production environments.

Production Chemist II

Experienced individual contributor with increasing autonomy. Troubleshoots process deviations, supports investigations, and assists with CAPAs and quality documentation. Trains and mentors Chemist I team members. Participates in process improvements, tech transfers, and scale-up activities.

Production Chemist III

Senior-level chemist and technical leader. Acts as a subject matter expert (SME) for processes and equipment. Makes operational “go/no-go” decisions with Quality and leadership. Leads troubleshooting, process optimization, and mentoring of Chemist I & II staff. Supports production planning, forecasting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications (Level-Appropriate)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent. High School Diploma with significant GMP manufacturing experience may be considered (Chemist I).

Experience

• Chemist I: 0–2 years of relevant experience (peptide manufacturing preferred)
• Chemist II: 3+ years of relevant experience in a regulated environment
• Chemist III: 5+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated leadership and technical expertise

Key Skills

• Peptide synthesis and purification (HPLC)
• cGMP documentation and compliance
• Safe handling of hazardous chemicals and reagents
• Strong communication, teamwork, and time management
• Problem-solving and continuous improvement mindset

Work Environment

Hands-on manufacturing environment with hazardous materials. Ability to wear respirators and required PPE. Regular standing, walking, and lifting up to 25 lbs.

Why PolyPeptide Laboratories

At PolyPeptide Laboratories, you’ll do meaningful, hands-on work that directly supports life-changing pharmaceutical therapies. We offer a collaborative, safety-first manufacturing environment with clear growth paths, advanced technologies, and the opportunity to develop your expertise alongside experienced scientists who care about quality and doing things the right way.

Your work here won’t just advance your career; it will help deliver medicines that truly make a difference.

Salary:

• Production Chemist I: $28-$33/hr
• Production Chemist II: $33-$37/hr
• Production Chemist III: $37-$45/hr

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.