Chemical Technician The Chemical Technician is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation, cleaning, and setup, of the Purification division's chromatography columns and associated process equipment and facilities. This position supports chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing operations by executing chromatography processes according to approved batch records, standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), where applicable. The technician will monitor process parameters, perform column packing and unpacking activities, execute cleaning and sanitization procedures, troubleshoot routine operating issues, and accurately document all activities. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, chemical-processing experience, and a commitment to safety and quality.
Key Responsibilities:- Operate the chromatography columns (currently, a Novasep LC150 and LC1000) and associated pumps, valves, piping, instrumentation, and process equipment in accordance with approved SOPs and batch documentation.
- Perform column preparation, packing, equilibration, loading, washing, elution, regeneration, and other chromatography operations as required by the manufacturing process.
- Clean and sanitize the column and associated process equipment using approved cleaning procedures and chemical solutions.
- Perform column unpacking, resin removal, inspection, cleaning, and preparation for subsequent campaigns.
- Prepare and handle process chemicals, buffers, cleaning solutions, and other materials in accordance with established procedures and chemical-safety requirements.
- Monitor operating parameters such as pressure, flow rate, temperature, conductivity, pH, and other applicable process indicators.
- Recognize abnormal operating conditions and take appropriate corrective action within established procedures; escalate equipment or process issues when required.
- Perform equipment setup, line connections, valve alignments, hose changes, and other routine equipment preparations.
- Conduct pre-use and post-use inspections of the chromatography system and associated equipment.
- Verify equipment cleanliness and readiness before and after processing.
- Complete batch records, equipment logs, cleaning records, checklists, and other required documentation accurately and in a timely manner and according to ALCOA+ principals
- Perform routine cleaning and sanitization of the production facilities
- Maintain accurate material identification, labeling, and traceability throughout the process.
- Follow GMP, OSHA, environmental, health and safety, and site-specific requirements as applicable.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow procedures for the safe handling of chemicals and process materials.
- Assist with investigations, deviations, corrective actions, and continuous-improvement activities related to chromatography operations.
- Communicate effectively with Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and other support groups.
- Perform routine equipment maintenance and identify equipment conditions requiring Maintenance or Engineering support.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
- Take self-initiative to support the CPS Core Values in the performance of job tasks while working on the priorities of the business
- Participate in training, qualification, and cross-training activities associated with manufacturing operations.
- Perform any other activities as assigned by the supervisor
Requirements:- High school diploma or GED.
- Experience in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, bioprocessing, chromatography, or a related industrial environment.
- Ability to follow detailed SOPs, batch records, and written instructions.
- Ability to safely work with chemicals and process equipment.
- Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a manufacturing team.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot routine equipment issues.
- Ability to wear required PPE and perform physical tasks associated with manufacturing operations.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or able to work in the U.S. for reasons other than practical training.
Preferred:- Associate degree or technical training in chemistry, chemical processing, biotechnology, engineering, or a related field.
- Experience operating chromatography systems or process-scale purification equipment.
- Experience with Novasep equipment, including the LC150 and/or LC1000 or similar industrial chromatography systems.
- Experience in a GMP-regulated pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or chemical manufacturing environment.
- Familiarity with pumps, valves, piping systems, instrumentation, and process-control equipment.
- Experience with cleaning validation, equipment changeover, or CIP procedures.
- Knowledge of chemical handling, industrial hygiene, and process safety practices. Physical and Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during manufacturing operations.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment within site-established limits.
- Ability to work around chemicals, process equipment, and industrial manufacturing environments while using required PPE in controlled manufacturing areas.
- Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime, as required by production schedules.
Location: Reading Campus – Building 3Work Environment (estimated averages):
- Floor 95%
- Office 5% (training) Growth Opportunities:
- Production Leadership (shift or site)
- Additional opportunities may exist with Custom Processing Services Inc: different departments, divisions, manufacturing facilities, or subsidiaries.
