Process Scientist

Job Title:

Process Scientist Job Description The Process Scientist executes and scales chemical processes from laboratory development through full-scale plant production. This role combines hands-on synthetic chemistry, analytical testing, and process scale-up, with a strong emphasis on practical problem-solving, process optimization, and effective knowledge transfer between research and manufacturing teams. Responsibilities Perform laboratory and pilot-scale chemical reactions to support process development and scale-up to manufacturing volumes at kilogram scale and beyond. Execute and optimize synthetic processes, including chemical reactions and downstream purification techniques, to ensure robust, efficient, and reproducible processes. Conduct analytical characterization using techniques such as NMR, HPLC, mass spectrometry (MS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and general spectroanalysis methods to assess product quality and process performance. Support scale-up activities from lab-scale reactors (approximately 40-50L) to production-scale reactors (approximately 100-2500L), ensuring consistency, safety, and efficiency of processes during transfer. Apply strong scientific judgment to make logical, data-driven decisions during process development, optimization, and troubleshooting. Work hands-on at both the laboratory bench and on the production floor to directly support manufacturing operations and resolve process-related issues. Collaborate cross-functionally with research, operations, and manufacturing teams to effectively transfer process knowledge, methods, and best practices. Document experimental work, scale-up findings, and process recommendations in a clear and organized manner to support technology transfer and continuous improvement. Essential Skills PhD or advanced academic background in Chemistry or a closely related field, with a strong foundation in synthetic chemistry and active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) development in an industry setting. Minimum of 4 years of industry experience performing chemical synthesis and process scale-up. Demonstrated experience handling chemical materials at laboratory scale, including up to multi-kilogram quantities, with exposure to process scale-up environments. Strong understanding of reaction chemistry, process optimization, and analytical techniques relevant to synthetic and process chemistry. Hands-on experience with analytical methods such as NMR, HPLC, mass spectrometry (MS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and other spectroanalysis techniques. Ability to operate effectively in both research and manufacturing environments with a practical, execution-focused mindset. Proven ability to make data-driven decisions and apply sound scientific judgment during process development and troubleshooting. Strong collaboration and communication skills to facilitate effective knowledge transfer across teams. Additional Skills & Qualifications background in pharmaceutical or API process development is highly beneficial. Experience working with pilot-scale and production-scale reactors in the 40-2500L range. Familiarity with downstream purification operations associated with synthetic processes. Ability to work comfortably at the interface of R D and manufacturing, adapting methods and procedures for plant implementation. Motivation to contribute to continuous improvement of processes, methods, and technology transfer practices. Interest in working in an environment that offers profit sharing, generous paid time off, paid holidays, and additional benefits. Work Environment The Process Scientist works across office, R D laboratory, and manufacturing environments. Time is split between bench-scale experimental work, pilot and production-scale operations, and documentation or collaboration activities in an office setting. The role involves working with chemical materials, laboratory instrumentation such as NMR, HPLC, MS, IR, and other analytical equipment, as well as operating or supporting work around reactors ranging from approximately 40-50L at lab scale to 100-2500L at production scale. The environment emphasizes safety, practical execution, and close collaboration between research and manufacturing teams, and offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes profit sharing, four weeks of paid time off, paid holidays, and additional benefits. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Cedarburg, WI. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $90000.00 - $110000.00/yr.

Bonus programs:

short-term incentive up to 5% (cash once per year) and a profit share of up to 5.75% (deposited into the employee's 401k). 4 week PTO and paid holiday. Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Cedarburg,WI. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 19, 2026. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through: Hiring diverse talent Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes Ensuring growth opportunities for our people Actalent is an equal opportunity employer. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day. Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.