Production Chemist - San Diego
Job Overview
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.