Manufacturing Associate II, Research Analytics, High Throughput Operations

Moderna is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Associate II to support the reliable, reproducible, and timely production of DNA, mRNA, and Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) materials used across Moderna’s research portfolio in Cambridge, MA.

About the role

The Manufacturing Associate II independently executes established high-throughput workflows, operates manual and automated laboratory systems, documents work accurately, and applies process knowledge to recognize and resolve routine issues. The successful candidate will combine strong operational discipline with scientific curiosity and a continuous-improvement mindset, working closely with colleagues in Research Analytics and cross-functional partners to support material generation for scientific advancements.

Success requires strong technical execution, attention to detail, the ability to work independently while balancing multiple priorities, and a collaborative approach in a fast-paced environment. The role upholds and maintains safe and organized laboratory operations while delivering high-quality materials under ambitious timelines.

Responsibilities

• Execute day-to-day high-throughput manufacturing activities supporting production of DNA, mRNA, and Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) materials for Moderna's research programs.
• Prepare and process samples, reagents, consumables, and production materials while operating both manual and automated laboratory equipment, including integrated liquid-handling systems and other production instrumentation.
• Accurately complete production records and digital documentation, ensuring laboratory activities meet quality, safety, and data integrity expectations.
• Monitor production processes, identify routine process or equipment issues, perform first-line troubleshooting, and partner with technical experts to support investigations and issue resolution.
• Contribute to improving workflow efficiency, equipment utilization, material flow, turnaround time, and overall laboratory performance using operational data and process knowledge.
• Support implementation of new automation, digital capabilities, and operational improvements.
• Coordinate and execute production activities with colleagues across Research Analytics, Quality Control, Engineering, Automation, and Informatics teams.
• Communicate priorities and production status, ensuring successful handoffs between teams.
• Support onboarding and task-level training of peers, maintain an organized and inspection-ready laboratory, and foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree (4+ years of relevant experience) or Bachelor’s degree (2+ years of relevant experience) in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline. Equivalent combinations of education and direct manufacturing experience will also be considered.
• Hands-on experience executing laboratory or manufacturing workflows using established procedures within a quality-focused, regulated, or fast-paced environment.
• Experience operating laboratory instrumentation, automated equipment, or integrated production systems.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and consistently deliver accurate, high-quality, and reproducible results.
• Strong attention to detail with experience maintaining accurate documentation and adhering to data integrity, material traceability, quality, and laboratory safety requirements.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to perform hands-on laboratory work for extended periods and meet applicable laboratory gowning and physical requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in high-throughput, automation-enabled, or plate-based laboratory operations.
• Hands-on experience with Hamilton liquid handlers or comparable automated liquid-handling platforms.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following workflows: molecular DNA assembly, plasmid production, in vitro transcription, RNA purification, LNP formulation, or associated analytical methods.
• Experience using laboratory digital systems, electronic batch records (EBRs), Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), inventory management systems, or production tracking applications.
• Experience supporting process optimization, Lean, 5S, continuous improvement, laboratory organization, safety, or operational excellence initiatives.
• Experience using operational metrics or production data to identify workflow bottlenecks, improve laboratory performance, and enhance manufacturing efficiency.
• Experience onboarding, training, mentoring, or sharing technical knowledge with peers on established laboratory or manufacturing workflows.
• Demonstrated curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new manufacturing technologies, automation platforms, digital tools, and scientific workflows.

Working Conditions

• On-site, laboratory-based position in Cambridge, MA.
• Routine use of personal protective equipment and adherence to laboratory gowning, safety, and waste-handling procedures.
• May require standing for extended periods, repetitive pipetting or material-handling activities, and occasional lifting consistent with site requirements.
• Occasional schedule adjustments or overtime may be needed to support critical production activities.
• Expected to work Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; schedule flexibility may occasionally be required to meet urgent business needs.

Benefits

• Competitive healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support unique needs.
• Holistic well-being support, including fitness, mindfulness, and mental health resources.
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown.
• Savings and investments to help plan for the future.
• Location-specific perks and extras.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $63,200.00 - $100,900.00. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs. The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.