Scientist II

This is a Contract position based out of Los Angeles, CA.

About the role

We are seeking a Scientist II, Manufacturing Sciences to support the development, improvement, and manufacturing of molecular diagnostic reagents. This is a hands-on laboratory role with opportunities to lead projects, analyze data, and contribute to continuous process improvements in a regulated environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple projects while meeting timelines and priorities.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot DNA-based diagnostic reagents and processes.
• Design and execute molecular biology experiments and analyze resulting data.
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations and manufacturing workflows.
• Train and mentor junior scientists on laboratory procedures and best practices.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, including PCR/qPCR systems, thermal cyclers, genetic analyzers, and electrophoresis equipment.
• Create and maintain SOPs, quality records, and technical documentation.
• Partner with cross-functional teams including R&D, Operations, Quality, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Product Management.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and process improvement methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, GLP, GDP, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum 2 years of professional laboratory experience (industry experience preferred).
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with PCR-based workflows.
• Ability to independently manage projects and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Molecular diagnostics or DNA-based assay development experience.
• Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) experience.
• Data analysis experience in a scientific or manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of HLA testing or related technologies.
• Experience working in GMP, GLP, or other regulated environments.
• Previous project leadership or mentoring experience.

Work Environment

• Primarily laboratory-based position.
• Frequent work at laboratory benches, freezers, and computer workstations.
• Occasional handling of blood samples and blood-derived products.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.

Skills

• Molecular Biology
• PCR / qPCR
• Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
• DNA Analysis
• Quality Control (QC)
• GMP / GLP Compliance
• SOP Development
• Manufacturing Sciences

Pay

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $40.00/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.

Benefits

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)

Schedule

This is a fully onsite position in Los Angeles, CA.