HPLC Chemist

Company Description

Harken Research is an ISO17025 accredited testing laboratory located in Los Angeles with two core business units: consumer product testing and pharmaceutical contract research. Within the consumer product testing unit dietary supplements, food, and cosmetics are the focus – with additional testing services catering to other industries. Our strengths are our ability to offer customized testing and problem solving to address client needs; excellent customer service; and quick turnaround times.

Summary

We are seeking an HPLC Chemist to join our team. This position is focused on running HPLC methods to accurately quantify vitamins and other small molecules in dietary supplement finished products and raw material samples. Additional duties include preparing samples and maintaining data accuracy. The role is hands-on and best suited for candidates with about 2 years of HPLC experience who are eager to continue learning in a professional laboratory environment. The position comes with opportunity for growth and to make important contributions to improve efficiencies and workflows within the company.

Duties

• Prepare and process samples for HPLC analysis
• Operate and maintain HPLC systems with UV/DAD detection
• Follow established SOPs to run assays for analytes such as vitamins, amino acids, and botanical actives
• Perform routine instrument maintenance (e.g., solvent changes, priming pumps, column care)
• Accurately record results and maintain clear documentation in accordance with lab quality standards
• Troubleshooting Out of Specification results
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and quality protocols
• Perform extractions of a wide variety of matrices including dietary supplements, beverages, and food samples and troubleshoot any solubility issues encountered.
• Help accessioning team weigh out, photograph, and homogenize samples as needed.
• Additional duties may include: use of other analytical techniques such as LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or ICPMS.

Essential Functions

• Working in a stationary position for extended periods of time
• Working on a computer for extended periods of time
• Working in a laboratory for extended periods of time
• Maneuvering objects weighing up to 25 pounds in the course of routine laboratory work
• Communication with employees including laboratory, administrative, and sales personnel; ownership; vendors; contractors; and clients

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in relevant field (such as Chemistry or Chemical Engineering)
• 1-2 years experience with HPLC
• Experience working in an analytical testing laboratory is preferred
• Experience with wet chemistry is preferred
• Technical proficiency with pipetting and using an analytical balance
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer skills including email, Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a regulated environment (ISO 17025, GLP, or GMP)
• Experience testing dietary supplements or food

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

• HPLC: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Pasadena, CA 91105 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Pasadena, CA 91105: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person