PLS Scientist I

Shift:

Are you ready to work making the world a safer, healthier place? Join our mission to continuously move science forward; to innovate and advance all aspects of our business to improve the health and safety of our communities and lives.

This is a full-time, onsite, Raw Materials Scientist 1 position located in Oakdale, MN, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

SUMMARY

The Raw Materials Chemist is responsible for performing and overseeing analytical testing of raw materials in a fast‑paced CRO environment. This role supports GMP/GLP‑aligned laboratory operations through accurate analysis, documentation, and review of chemical data using intermediate to advanced knowledge of analytical chemistry, instrumentation, and raw‑material specifications. The Chemist provides technical guidance, contributes to process improvements, and demonstrates leadership potential within the analytical team.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs intermediate to advanced analytical testing of raw materials using techniques such as HPLC, GC, FTIR, UV‑Vis, titration, wet chemistry, and other instrumentation per SOPs, compendial methods, and client requirements.

• Reviews, interprets, and documents analytical data with a high level of accuracy; ensures compliance with internal quality standards and regulatory expectations.

• Conducts peer review of data, worksheets, and reports; supports junior staff by providing feedback and technical clarification.

• Oversees or assists with the completion, review, and processing of laboratory documentation, including raw data, COAs, logbooks, and electronic records.

• Provides analytical insight and recommendations to management and project teams regarding raw‑material testing, method execution, and laboratory best practices.

• Supports client communication by helping address technical questions, participating in investigations, and contributing to corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) when needed.

• Evaluates laboratory operations, testing trends, and quality metrics to identify opportunities for improvement; presents findings and recommendations to leadership.

• Ensures accuracy and reliability of testing through routine equipment calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance; collaborates with team members to resolve discrepancies.

• Participates in cross‑functional or chemistry‑focused projects, including method transfers, validations, and process improvements; contributes to planning, timelines, and resource needs.

• Maintains a clean, safe, and compliant laboratory environment; adheres to all safety policies, chemical hygiene requirements, and regulatory guidelines.

• Interprets and applies laboratory policies, SOPs, and relevant regulations (USP, EP, ISO, GMP/GLP) with minimal guidance.

• Contributes to a collaborative, efficient work environment by actively participating in team initiatives and supporting departmental goals.

• Demonstrates professional, courteous behavior when interacting with clients, colleagues, and leadership; supports a positive and productive workplace culture.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field.

• Four (4) to five (5) years of analytical chemistry experience in a CRO, pharmaceutical, or regulated laboratory environment, preferably with raw‑materials testing responsibilities.

• Experience with Empower Software for HPLC/GC strongly preferred

• Experience providing technical guidance, mentoring, or informal leadership is strongly preferred.

• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

Knowledge

• Intermediate to advanced principles and practices of analytical chemistry, particularly raw‑material characterization.

• Working knowledge of GMP/GLP requirements, compendial testing (USP/EP/JP), and laboratory quality systems.

• Understanding of laboratory instrumentation, calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

• Familiarity with LIMS, chromatography data systems, and standard laboratory software.

• Knowledge of project coordination and cross‑functional collaboration in a CRO environment.

• Strong understanding of safe laboratory practices and chemical handling.

Skills

• Performing intermediate to advanced analytical testing with accuracy and efficiency.

• Reviewing, interpreting, and documenting complex analytical data.

• Providing technical guidance and supporting the development of junior staff.

• Managing multiple projects and deadlines in a client‑driven environment.

• Preparing clear, concise technical reports and documentation.

• Exercising sound judgment, initiative, and problem‑solving skills.

• Communicating effectively with colleagues, clients, and leadership.

• Building strong working relationships and contributing to team success.

• Delivering effective oral presentations to peers and management.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Mobility to work in a lab and office setting, use standard office and lab equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull or move objects; vision to read printed materials and computer screens; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a lab and office setting. Work is subject to chemicals, fumes, gases, noxious odors, and related items in a lab and sample setting.

Find Your Place at Pace - We need you - your curiosity, your talents, and your drive - to help us advance this important work.

Benefits
When you join Pace®, you commit to work that makes a positive impact on our communities and our world. We commit to supporting you with benefits and perks that make a positive impact on your life. Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program which includes competitive salaries, medical, dental vision, 401K retirement savings plan (100% vested immediately in the employer match), life, disability and voluntary benefits, paid time off for holiday, sick and vacation days, HSA, wellness program, flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, Employee Assistance program, parental leave, optional legal coverage and ID theft.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Pace® provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, creed, color, religion, genetics, protected veteran status, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.