Senior Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Engineering

MSD

Remote

Quick summary

Work type
Remote
Location
Rahway, NJ
Salary
$117,000–$184,200 / yr
Posted
3 days ago
Closes
Jul 10, 2026

Market check

Salary context

Below market

How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $188k
This role $151k
$104k most similar roles pay here $238k

This role pays less than 76% of similar roles. Most pay $155,110–$221,000 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $151k 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 23 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $142,400–$224,100 across 22 roles with salary data.

Most-posted roles

View all roles at MSD

At a glance

TL;DR · Senior Scientist, Small Molecule Chemical Engineering

The Senior Scientist, Engineering role in the Chemical Commercialization Technology department of our Manufacturing Division requires a highly motivated individual with extensive experience in chemical process development to lead internal and external projects. This position involves developing safe and robust manufacturing processes through characterization, technology transfer, validation, and supply support for late-stage small molecule projects. Day-to-day responsibilities include hands-on experimentation at various scales, utilizing Quality Risk Management methodologies, and adhering to cGMPs while conducting risk assessments and deviation investigations. The ideal candidate holds a BS/MS with 5+ years of experience or a PhD in Chemical Engineering and possesses expertise in process development, statistical design of experiments, and mathematical modeling. Familiarity with DOE tools, chromatographic techniques, and Quality by Design principles is essential for success in this role within the pharmaceutical industry.

What you'll do

  • Develop and execute experimental programs to address process design, robustness, and productivity issues.
  • Lead regulatory file authoring, validation planning, and execution for late-stage projects.
  • Perform hands-on experimentation at laboratory and kilo lab scales for process development.
  • Guide internal and external technical discussions related to manufacturing processes.
  • Utilize statistical design of experiments methodologies and tools in process characterization.

What we're looking for

  • BS or MS in Chemical Engineering with at least 5 years of relevant work experience, or PhD.
  • Experience developing and executing experimental programs for process design, robustness, and productivity.
  • Proficiency in statistical design and analysis tools, including Quality Risk Management methodologies.
  • Hands-on lab-based research and development skills, including chemical reactions, work-up, and crystallization.
  • Ability to lead regulatory file authoring, validation planning, and execution.
  • Experience with process scale-up and technology transfer from laboratory to commercial manufacturing facilities.

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