Job Title: R&D Formulation ScientistJob DescriptionUtilize scientific and technical expertise to independently develop and optimize pharmaceutical formulations, with a primary focus on oral solid dosage (OSD) products, including tablets and capsules. Responsibilities include formulation and process development, technology transfer, manufacture of clinical supplies, process validation, and support for commercial product manufacturing. This role involves working independently with minimal supervisory guidance on the hands-on formulation and process development of oral solid dosage products.
Responsibilities
- Independently design, develop, and optimize oral solid dosage formulations, including immediate and modified-release products. Activities include literature search, pre-formulation, excipient selection, formulation design, hands-on laboratory formulation development, troubleshooting, process scale-up and optimization, manufacture of exhibit batches and clinical supplies, technology transfer, process validation, and commercial product launch.
- Develop and execute product development and technology transfer work plans and schedules in a timely manner.
- Draft technical documents such as SOPs, proposals, presentations, batch records, protocols, reports, deviations, investigations, and regulatory submission documents. Maintain high-quality laboratory documentation in accordance with applicable regulatory guidance and site SOPs.
- Use sound experimental design and QbD principles to execute development projects.
- Assist customers in addressing technical needs, gap assessment, troubleshooting, and equipment selection.
- Participate in continuous process improvement projects and support departmental initiatives, as well as evaluate new technologies to expand service offerings.
- Train and mentor junior scientists and technical staff in product development principles and practices.
- Work in cross-functional teams that include Project Management, Manufacturing, Packaging, Analytical R&D, Quality Control, Purchasing, Engineering Quality Assurance, and external customers.
- Communicate internally and externally through verbal and written updates, discussions, presentations, and formal reports as necessary.
- Observe all regulatory guidelines and adhere to internal SOPs to maintain a safe, clean cGMP environment.
- Promote the company's image through participation in conferences and seminars.
Essential Skills
- BS/MS or Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutics, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Direct pharmaceutical formulation development experience.
- At least 3 years (for Ph.D.) to 6 years (for BS/MS) experience in pharmaceutical product development and/or tech-transfer for oral solids products.
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with formulation development and manufacturing for oral solid dosage products.
- Familiarity with technologies such as fluid beds, high shear granulators, roller compactors, dryers, tablet presses, coating machines, blenders, mills, etc.
- Good knowledge of cGMPs and safety practices.
- Self-motivated with good problem-solving and project management skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Knowledge of controlled substance handling is a plus.
- Must have basic computer knowledge, including MS Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Ability to handle difficult situations produced by time constraints and customer demands.
- Ability to work in both a team/matrix environment and independently.
- Ability to work safely in a chemical laboratory.
- Ability to perform basic calculations, read, write, communicate, and handle stress produced by time pressure and customer demands.
Work EnvironmentThe work environment is a laboratory setting with a team of 10 people. It requires wearing the necessary PPE to enter laboratory and processing areas. The position may require sitting or standing for prolonged periods and occasionally lifting up to 25 lbs. The facility is a new, growing CMO, offering high pay and state-of-the-art equipment. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of East Windsor, NJ. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $58.00 - $62.50/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of East Windsor, NJ. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 24, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in East Windsor,NJ.About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
