Chemistry Lab Technician

Job Title: Chemist

Job Description

This entry-level Chemist role focuses on performing accurate analytical testing using advanced instrumentation such as HPLC and LC/MS/MS within an industrial hygiene chemistry laboratory that supports pharmaceutical and life sciences clients. You will prepare and analyze samples, interpret and record data in LIMS, and follow established test methods and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure high-quality, timely results. The position offers extensive hands-on training on a wide range of analytical instruments, exposure to diverse methodologies and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and clear opportunities for growth into additional laboratory areas.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing with a high degree of accuracy using complex instrumentation such as HPLC, LC/MS/MS, and other chromatographic and mass spectrometry systems as required.

• Carry out sample preparation and pre-analysis procedures as described in test methods, ensuring all samples are correctly labeled and handled to avoid mix-ups and cross contamination.

• Prepare reagents, calibration standards, and other solutions required for analysis, following laboratory protocols and good laboratory practices.

• Review LIMS summary reports to plan, prioritize, and organize daily work, including accommodating rush samples and meeting turnaround time expectations.

• Conduct routine maintenance and calibration of instruments to ensure reliable performance and accurate analytical results.

• Interpret analytical data, perform necessary calculations, determine final results, and enter data accurately into the LIMS system.

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and departmental methods consistently when conducting all analytical work.

• Carry out quality control procedures, evaluate QC results, and recognize when data is unacceptable based on test method guidelines or SOPs.

• Identify non-routine or unusual samples and seek guidance on appropriate handling and analytical procedures.

• Meet quality specifications and turnaround time (TAT) requirements while ensuring samples are analyzed within holding time limits.

• Communicate workstation status, including progress updates and anticipated delays, to supervisors or managers in a timely manner.

• Identify and report procedural non-conformances or deviations to the appropriate supervisor for review and corrective action.

• Employ proper laboratory techniques to minimize the risk of mislabeling, sample mix-up, and cross contamination between samples and other materials.

• Adhere to the laboratorys Code of Ethics and all relevant policies, maintaining integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism in all work.

• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, contributing to a positive, fast-paced team environment while also working independently as needed.

• Adapt to changing priorities, new methods, and evolving client needs in a dynamic laboratory setting.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline, strongly preferring a chemistry background.

• 03 years of relevant laboratory experience; open to entry-level candidates and those with 12 years of analytical chemistry experience.

• Strong science background with practical experience in laboratory practices and analytical techniques.

• Experience with HPLC, GC, or IC is considered an asset, with particular value placed on hands-on HPLC experience.

• Competence in reviewing and following analytical procedures, test methods, and standard operating practices.

• Ability to work with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of analytical work and documentation.

• Strong interpersonal skills with effective verbal and written communication abilities.

• Good time-management, multi-tasking, and priority-setting skills to manage workloads and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to adapt to a changing environment, including new methods, technologies, and client requirements.

• Capability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with HPLC, gas chromatography (GC), ion chromatography (IC), mass spectrometry, and liquid chromatography techniques is highly beneficial.

• Familiarity with LC/MS/MS, UHPLC-DAD/FLD/CAD, HPLC-DAD-FLD, IC-EC, or other advanced analytical instrumentation is an advantage.

• Experience working with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), isolated process intermediates (IPIs), or process chemical agents and solvents is a plus.

• Exposure to LIMS or other laboratory information management systems is desirable.

• Ability to interpret complex analytical data and apply critical thinking to troubleshoot or resolve analytical issues.

• Positive outlook and willingness to learn, with an interest in developing expertise across multiple analytical platforms and methods.

• Comfort working in a non-GMP regulated environment that offers flexibility while still maintaining rigorous quality standards.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Barrington, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Barrington, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 22, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Barrington,IL.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.