Quality Control Chemist Jobs for OPT Students
Quality Control Chemist roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Most positions involve STEM-designated SOC codes, making them eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Lab-based roles in pharmaceutical, food, and manufacturing industries actively hire OPT candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Would you like to join an international team working to improve the future of healthcare? Do you want to enhance the lives of millions of people? Grifols is a global healthcare company that since 1909 has been working to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. We are leaders in plasma-derived medicines and transfusion medicine and develop, produce and market innovative medicines, solutions and services in more than 110 countries and regions.
JOB SUMMARY
The QC Chemist is responsible for performing routine and non-routine chemical and biochemical assays on protein-based therapeutics and raw materials.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
- Perform various QC / Quality Control testing (i.e. product release testing, stability testing, in-process testing, and other protocol testing) as directed by the laboratory supervisor or senior chemist.
- Compile and enter data into computer database (i.e. LIMS - Laboratory Information Management System) to be used for reporting and trending purposes.
- Review test results against specifications.
- Will share general responsibilities for laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration, housekeeping, and other lab support functions (e.g., inventory of consumables and reagents).
- Maintain sample logs on a daily basis to ensure timely testing and tracking of all samples.
- Maintain Instrument Usage and Calibration Logs based on instrument usage during the preparation and testing of samples.
- Strict adherence to procedures and practices according to FDA regulations.
- Strong emphasis on documentation according to FDA regulations.
- Adhere to departmental corporate safety policies.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology or closely related scientific discipline is required.
- Related experience in a pharmaceutical, GMP, or FDA regulated testing laboratory is preferred.
- Requires a basic understanding of analytical methodologies and protein biochemistry (e.g. IC, HPLC, GC, etc.).
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to make structured decisions on a routine basis.
- Must be proactive, results oriented, and have strong attention to detail.
- Self-starter with strong work ethic and the ability to exercise good judgment.
- Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks to meet targeted deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with personnel at all levels in a team environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language.
- Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Specific experience with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is preferred.
- Must be flexible with working hours / shifts in order to accommodate the 24 hour, 7 day plant operation.
This job description is accurate at the date of publication. It is intended to provide information essential to understanding the scope and general nature of the work performed by job holders within this position. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position. Other duties may be assigned and qualifications required may change over time.
COMPENSATION
- The estimated pay scale for the QC Chemist role based in California, is $26.22-$28.00. Additionally, the position is eligible to participate in up to 5% of the company bonus pool. We offer a wide variety of benefits including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, life insurance, PTO, paid holidays and up to 5% 401(K) match and tuition reimbursement. Final compensation packages will ultimately depend on education, experience, skillset, knowledge, where the role is performed, internal equity and market data. We are committed to offering our employees opportunities for professional growth and career progression. Grifols is a global healthcare organization with employees in 30 countries focused on patient health and providing impactful results. Since our humble beginnings in 1909, Grifols has been a family company that prides itself on its family-like culture. Our company has more than tripled over the last 10 years, and you can grow with us!
THIRD PARTY AGENCY AND RECRUITER NOTICE:
Agencies that present a candidate to Grifols must have an active, nonexpired, Grifols Agency Master Services Agreement with the Grifols Talent Acquisition Department. Additionally, agencies may only submit candidates to positions that they have been engaged to work on by a Grifols Recruiter. All resumes must be sent to a Grifols Recruiter under these terms or they will be considered a Grifols candidate.
EEO STATEMENT
Grifols provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants in a manner consistent with the requirements of all applicable laws, including but not limited to, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
LOCATION
Location: NORTH AMERICA : USA : CA-Los Angeles:US403 - LA CA-QC Building
INTRODUCTION
Would you like to join an international team working to improve the future of healthcare? Do you want to enhance the lives of millions of people? Grifols is a global healthcare company that since 1909 has been working to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. We are leaders in plasma-derived medicines and transfusion medicine and develop, produce and market innovative medicines, solutions and services in more than 110 countries and regions.
JOB SUMMARY
The QC Chemist is responsible for performing routine and non-routine chemical and biochemical assays on protein-based therapeutics and raw materials.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
- Perform various QC / Quality Control testing (i.e. product release testing, stability testing, in-process testing, and other protocol testing) as directed by the laboratory supervisor or senior chemist.
- Compile and enter data into computer database (i.e. LIMS - Laboratory Information Management System) to be used for reporting and trending purposes.
- Review test results against specifications.
- Will share general responsibilities for laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration, housekeeping, and other lab support functions (e.g., inventory of consumables and reagents).
- Maintain sample logs on a daily basis to ensure timely testing and tracking of all samples.
- Maintain Instrument Usage and Calibration Logs based on instrument usage during the preparation and testing of samples.
- Strict adherence to procedures and practices according to FDA regulations.
- Strong emphasis on documentation according to FDA regulations.
- Adhere to departmental corporate safety policies.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology or closely related scientific discipline is required.
- Related experience in a pharmaceutical, GMP, or FDA regulated testing laboratory is preferred.
- Requires a basic understanding of analytical methodologies and protein biochemistry (e.g. IC, HPLC, GC, etc.).
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to make structured decisions on a routine basis.
- Must be proactive, results oriented, and have strong attention to detail.
- Self-starter with strong work ethic and the ability to exercise good judgment.
- Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple tasks to meet targeted deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with personnel at all levels in a team environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language.
- Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Specific experience with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is preferred.
- Must be flexible with working hours / shifts in order to accommodate the 24 hour, 7 day plant operation.
This job description is accurate at the date of publication. It is intended to provide information essential to understanding the scope and general nature of the work performed by job holders within this position. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position. Other duties may be assigned and qualifications required may change over time.
COMPENSATION
- The estimated pay scale for the QC Chemist role based in California, is $26.22-$28.00. Additionally, the position is eligible to participate in up to 5% of the company bonus pool. We offer a wide variety of benefits including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental, Vision, life insurance, PTO, paid holidays and up to 5% 401(K) match and tuition reimbursement. Final compensation packages will ultimately depend on education, experience, skillset, knowledge, where the role is performed, internal equity and market data. We are committed to offering our employees opportunities for professional growth and career progression. Grifols is a global healthcare organization with employees in 30 countries focused on patient health and providing impactful results. Since our humble beginnings in 1909, Grifols has been a family company that prides itself on its family-like culture. Our company has more than tripled over the last 10 years, and you can grow with us!
THIRD PARTY AGENCY AND RECRUITER NOTICE:
Agencies that present a candidate to Grifols must have an active, nonexpired, Grifols Agency Master Services Agreement with the Grifols Talent Acquisition Department. Additionally, agencies may only submit candidates to positions that they have been engaged to work on by a Grifols Recruiter. All resumes must be sent to a Grifols Recruiter under these terms or they will be considered a Grifols candidate.
EEO STATEMENT
Grifols provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants in a manner consistent with the requirements of all applicable laws, including but not limited to, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
LOCATION
Location: NORTH AMERICA : USA : CA-Los Angeles:US403 - LA CA-QC Building
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Quality Control Chemist
Confirm your role qualifies for STEM OPT
Quality Control Chemist positions typically fall under STEM-eligible SOC codes like 19-2031 (Chemists). Verify with your DSO before accepting an offer to confirm the role qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Target regulated industries with active OPT hiring
Pharmaceutical, biotech, food and beverage, and medical device manufacturers regularly hire OPT students for QC roles. These industries have structured compliance teams familiar with work authorization requirements and are more likely to sponsor H-1B later.
Highlight GMP and analytical lab experience
Employers prioritize candidates with hands-on Good Manufacturing Practice experience and proficiency with instruments like HPLC, GC, or UV-Vis. Leading with lab-specific skills in your resume signals you can contribute from day one.
Address OPT proactively in your application
Many QC hiring managers are unfamiliar with OPT. Briefly explain your authorization status and remaining OPT duration in your cover letter or email. Framing it clearly reduces employer hesitation before the first conversation.
Apply before your OPT start date, not after
QC roles often require background checks and onboarding that take two to four weeks. Start applying at least 60 days before your OPT begins so your authorization is active when the employer needs you to start.
Use your university network for QC opportunities
Chemistry and engineering departments often have alumni in QC roles at local manufacturers. Professors may also have industry connections. A warm introduction from a faculty member or alumni carries real weight in regulated industries.
Quality Control Chemist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Quality Control Chemist on OPT?
Yes, as long as your degree is in a related field such as chemistry, biochemistry, or chemical engineering and the role is directly tied to that field of study. Quality Control Chemist positions at pharmaceutical, food, and manufacturing companies are among the most common OPT-eligible placements for chemistry graduates.
Does a Quality Control Chemist role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Quality Control Chemist positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension because they fall under STEM-designated SOC codes, typically 19-2031 (Chemists) or 17-2041 (Chemical Engineers). Your DSO must confirm the specific SOC code the employer uses, since classification varies by company. If approved, you get up to three years of total OPT work authorization.
What do employers need from me to hire me on OPT?
You'll need to provide your EAD card, which shows your work authorization period. During STEM OPT, your employer must also enroll in E-Verify and submit a Training Plan (Form I-983) with your DSO. Most QC employers in regulated industries already use E-Verify for compliance reasons, which simplifies the process.
How do I find Quality Control Chemist jobs that accept OPT students?
Migrate Mate lists Quality Control Chemist jobs from employers who are open to hiring OPT students, so you're not filtering through hundreds of postings that won't consider your authorization status. Pharmaceutical contractors, contract research organizations, and specialty chemical companies tend to be the most OPT-friendly employers in this field.
Can a Quality Control Chemist role lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, and it's one of the more realistic H-1B pathways for chemistry graduates. QC roles at pharmaceutical and biotech companies are classified as specialty occupations, which is a core H-1B requirement. Many large manufacturers have established immigration programs and sponsor H-1B petitions for QC staff who perform well during their OPT period.
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