Pfizer

Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry

Pfizer$106K — $176K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Organic Chemistry plus 4+ years in pharmaceutical process development; or Masters with 9+ years; or Bachelors with 12+ years.
  • Demonstrated scientific innovation through publications, patents, or presentations.
  • Strong understanding of synthetic organic chemistry, process development, and purification technologies.
  • Excellent communication skills for stakeholder collaboration.
  • In-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical development phases from pre-clinical to commercialization.
  • Experience in regulated environments, including GMP and regulatory authoring.

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute complex laboratory experiments with detailed data analysis.
  • Maintain high standards for laboratory records and reports.
  • Utilize advanced technologies for process development acceleration.
  • Serve as a recognized technical leader through publications and presentations.
  • Lead technical efforts for drug development phases.
  • Manage technology transfer and CRO/CDMO resource allocation.
  • Communicate concepts and solutions effectively to diverse teams.

Benefits

  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions and additional retirement savings.
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and personal days.
  • Paid caregiver/parental and medical leave.
  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Full Job Description
ROLE SUMMARY:

The Chemical Process and Analytical Development (CPAD) group located in Bothell, WA is responsible for the development of chemical processes and analytical methods for novel drug-linkers (linker-payloads) used in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Our process chemists, analytical chemists, and chemical engineers collaborate to discover phase-appropriate synthetic routes and chemical processes to accelerate the delivery of life saving medicines to patients, and to develop robust and innovative synthetic processes to novel commercial drug-linker candidates that drive the next generation of targeted cancer therapy.

As a Principal Scientist in CPAD, you will provide technical leadership to a team of process chemists engaged in route screening/selection, process development, and process characterization for our growing drug-linker portfolio. You will drive the development of safe and scalable chemistry by leveraging state-of-the-art technologies such as high-throughput experimentation, data-rich experimentation, catalysis, continuous processing, and predictive technologies. You will spearhead the advancement of Pfizer's oncology portfolio through personal laboratory effort as well as oversee external resources through technology transfer and campaign execution at CDMOs. You will serve as a technical and strategic leader for early and late-phase programs while mentoring junior staff members in a supportive and inclusive work environment. You will propose technical and strategic solutions to management and represent process chemistry in cross-functional teams requiring excellent communication skills. Finally, you will be expected to establish an external presence as technical leader in the field by authoring journal articles and presenting at leading external scientific meetings.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Design and execute well-planned laboratory experiments that require complex data analysis.
  • Maintain high standards for all laboratory records, reports, patents, regulatory documents, and external communications.
  • Employ state-of-the art technologies including high-throughput experimentation, data-rich experimentation, computational tools, and predictive software to accelerate process development.
  • Be recognized as a technical leader internally and externally by authoring publications and presenting externally.
  • Drive technical aspects of early and late phase pharmaceutical development.
  • Lead technology transfer to internal sites or external CDMOs for GMP manufacturing while managing CRO/CMO resources.
  • Persuasively communicate abstract concepts, ideas, and solutions to project teams, leadership, and cross-functional teams.
  • Establish and deliver on tight timelines aligned with our portfolio goals.
  • Promote a supportive and inclusive work environment and mentor junior staff.
  • Maintain an understanding of the activities and research carried out by the project team members.
  • Lead authoring for patents and regulatory documents.
  • Leverage knowledge and experience to guide cross-functional team decisions.
  • Build strong relationships with stakeholders to advocate for our department.


BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • PhD in Organic Chemistry with 4+ years of experience in pharmaceutical process development, including route design, scale-up, and GMP manufacturing; or a Master's degree with 9+ years of relevant experience OR Bachelors degree and 12+ years of experience.
  • Proven track record of scientific innovation and impact, demonstrated through authorship of peer-reviewed publications, patents, or presentations at recognized scientific conferences.
  • A sound understanding of modern synthetic organic chemistry principles, process development, engineering, analytical and purification technologies.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders.
  • In-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical development from pre-clinical to commercialization.
  • Experience in a regulated pharmaceutical environment including GMP deliveries and regulatory authoring.
  • This is an on-site designated role, and you will be expected to work five days per week on-site.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience with drug-linkers for ADCs or other targeted mixed-modality therapeutics.
  • Experience in mentoring scientific staff, both directly and in a matrix environment.
  • Experience with technology transfer activities and CRO/CDMO resource management.


PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Lifting, sitting, standing, walking, bending and ability to perform mathematical calculations.


NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS:
  • This is a laboratory-based position. Adherence to safe work practices, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, lab coats, and gloves, is required. Occasional travel for business purposes, scientific conferences, or collaboration (typically


Additional Job Details:
  • Work Location Assignment: On Premise
  • Last date to apply is June 23, 2026
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $106,000.00 to $176,600.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 15.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life's moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site - U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

About Pfizer

Hospira, Inc. is the provider of injectable drugs and infusion technologies. Through its broad, integrated portfolio, Hospira is uniquely positioned to Advance Wellness™ by improving patient and caregiver safety while reducing healthcare costs. The company is headquartered in Lake Forest, Ill., and has approximately 16,000 employees.

Pfizer Careers

Joining Pfizer’s global team offers more than just job opportunities; it’s a chance to be a part of a company that leads with science and innovates for better health. As a leading biopharmaceutical company, Pfizer is at the forefront of transforming lives through innovation, leadership, and diversity. Work You’ll Do At Pfizer, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, engaging in work that enhances global health and saves lives. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, professional growth, and inclusivity, making every day a learning opportunity. Here, your skills will be honed, your professional acumen will be expanded, and you will be part of a team that values the power of diverse insights to drive success. Pfizer’s Leadership and Growth Lead and innovate with Pfizer, where we value the growth of each employee. Our leadership is committed to providing employees with the training and resources needed to excel in their careers. Pfizer offers a variety of career paths, including roles in research, marketing, finance, technology, and more, each offering a unique blend of challenges and rewards. Internship and Employment Opportunities Start your career with Pfizer through our internship programs or dive straight into a full-time position. We are hiring individuals who are passionate about healthcare and who seek to make a difference in the world. Our internships provide invaluable industry experience, networking opportunities, and a potential pathway to full-time employment. Benefits and Culture Pfizer is dedicated to fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued and can achieve their full potential. We offer competitive benefits packages that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. At Pfizer, you’ll find a culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Join Our Team Explore the numerous job opportunities at Pfizer by searching open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for driven, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to advance their careers in a transformative company. Stay Connected Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Pfizer. Interview and Resume Tips Prepare for your future with Pfizer by utilizing our resources for resume building and interview preparation. We provide guidance on how to effectively showcase your skills and experiences to align with the needs of a position at Pfizer. Our goal is to help you succeed in securing a role that suits your professional goals and personal growth aspirations. Pfizer: A Place Where You Can Make a Difference Every position at Pfizer contributes to our mission of making the world a healthier place. Whether through direct patient care, research innovation, or corporate roles that support our operations, your work will have global impact. Join us in our journey to change lives—explore Pfizer careers today.
Learn more about Pfizer
Size
79,000 employees
Market Cap
$285.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$9.6 billion
Founded
1849
5 Year Trend
+9%
Revenue
$41.9 billion
NASDAQ

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