Laboratory Chemist

We are seeking a Chemistry Lab Consultant to support our Product Development R&D team in Cary, IL. Over the past two years, the team has established in-house chemistry and microbiology lab capabilities. We are now looking for an experienced professional to assess, benchmark, and optimize lab operations to ensure we are functioning as a compliant, efficient, and well-controlled R&D environment capable of supporting routine testing, developmental work, and stability studies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Evaluate current lab processes, instrumentation, and workflows across both the chemistry and microbiology labs.
• Benchmark existing operations and identify improvements to align with GMP expectations.
• Ensure proper segregation of materials, method development, and validation processes are established and documented.
• Review IQ/OQ activities previously performed by vendors and ensure calibration and preventive maintenance are effectively managed.
• Guide chemists in proper lab practices, method validation, and reliability testing to strengthen overall lab performance.
• Create or refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality documentation to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Mentor and support lab staff in day-to-day operations, ensuring best practices in sample handling, equipment use, and data integrity.
• Collaborate with R&D leadership to transition the lab into a fully GLP/GMP-compliant environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related scientific discipline.
• 5-8+ years of experience managing or leading operations in a chemistry or microbiology lab within a FDA-regulated, GMP/GLP environment.
• Proven track record developing, validating, and documenting analytical methods.
• Strong understanding of lab infrastructure setup, instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), and quality processes.
• Experience working in medical device and pharmaceutical industries required.
• Hands-on expertise with method development, calibration, and preventive maintenance.
• Experience with both chemistry labs required, and microbiology preferred

Term & Start

• 6+ month contract
• Onsite 5 days/week in Cary, IL
• 1 Panel Interview
• Full-time, 40 hours/week
• Benefits available (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k)