Associate Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Engineering

MSD

Confirmed live yesterday High trust

Quick summary

Work type
On-site
Location
Rahway, NJ
Salary
$71,900–$113,200 / yr
Posted
2 days ago
Freshness
Confirmed live yesterday
Closes
Sep 30, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Below market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $188k
This role $93k
$53k most similar roles pay here $250k

This role pays less than 99% of similar roles. Most pay $146,500–$228,993 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $93k versus about $188k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

Employer

About MSD

MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme) is the international name for Merck & Co., a major U.S.-based pharmaceutical company.

MSD currently has 24 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $117,000–$184,200 across 24 roles with salary data.

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View all roles at MSD

At a glance

TL;DR · Associate Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Engineering

Associate Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Engineering joins the Chemical Commercialization Technology department within the Manufacturing Division. This role focuses on developing safe and robust processes for small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients through process characterization, technology transfer, validation, filing, and supply support. The scientist performs hands-on wet chemistry experimentation at laboratory bench and kilo lab scales while managing the transition of processes to commercial manufacturing facilities. Key responsibilities include utilizing Quality Risk Management methodologies and statistical design of experiments to ensure product robustness and productivity. Required competencies include chemical engineering fundamentals, data analysis, technical writing, and experience with experimental methods in a pharmaceutical environment. The role requires strict adherence to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and Good Documentation Practices (GDPs). Candidates must possess skills in process scale-up, design of experiments, and manufacturing operations to solve complex production challenges.

What you'll do

  • Perform hands-on wet chemistry experimentation at laboratory bench and kilo lab scales.
  • Develop safe and robust manufacturing processes through process characterization and validation.
  • Execute technology transfers from laboratory settings to commercial manufacturing facilities.
  • Utilize Quality Risk Management methodologies and statistical design of experiments (DOE) for process development.
  • Conduct investigation into deviations and participate in risk assessments to ensure quality compliance.
  • Maintain strict adherence to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
  • Provide technical expertise for small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) process characterization.

What we're looking for

  • A BS or MS in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering field from an accredited institution is required.
  • Candidates must have a strong understanding of chemistry and chemical engineering fundamental concepts.
  • Ability to perform wet chemistry experimentation at laboratory bench and kilo lab scales is required.
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal, writing, and time management skills are required.
  • Experience with process development in a laboratory, pilot-scale, or manufacturing environment (preferred).
  • Experience developing and executing experimental programs for process design, robustness, or productivity (preferred).
  • Familiarity with statistical design and analysis tools (preferred).
  • Familiarity with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) in pharmaceutical drug substance or product development (preferred).

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