Senior Scientist, Analytical Development

About the role

Vaxcyte is a clinical‑stage vaccine innovation company seeking a Senior Scientist, Analytical Development to lead analytical method development activities for biologics/vaccine programs. The role designs and drives method development, performs and oversees routine and non‑routine analytical assays using modern techniques, and leads method optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives with minimal supervision. The incumbent also mentors junior team members and authors high‑quality technical documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Method Development & Troubleshooting: Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for method development, optimization, and qualification/validation readiness; define development strategies, experimental roadmaps, and robustness approaches; lead complex troubleshooting and investigations across assays and instrumentation, establishing root‑cause and preventive controls.
• Team Collaboration: Serve as a cross‑functional technical leader aligning analytical strategy with program objectives; proactively identify and manage technical risks and resource constraints; champion scientific excellence, compliance, and continuous improvement; mentor and train team members.
• Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation: Promote efficient, compliant laboratory operations, including organization, cleanliness, and material control; oversee instrument maintenance, qualification, and service activities; manage inventory strategy for reagents, standards, and consumables, supporting budgeting and procurement improvements.
• Analytical Testing & Data Generation: Lead routine and non‑routine analytical testing using techniques such as HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV‑Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate‑based assays, and other biochemical/biophysical methods; maintain accurate documentation; process and interpret data, communicating outcomes, risks, and recommendations.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices; handle chemicals and biological materials safely; ensure proper waste disposal and hazardous material handling; support audit and inspection readiness.

Requirements

• PhD, MS, or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline. PhD with 5+ years; MS with 8+ years; BS with 10+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other education/experience combinations may be considered.
• Extensive hands‑on experience across a broad analytical technique suite (UV‑Vis, HPLC, CE, SDS‑PAGE, icIEF, liquid chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate‑based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, PCR).
• Experience leading method development or optimization activities preferred.
• Deep expertise in analytical chemistry/biochemistry with broad platform understanding.
• Recognized technical leader in troubleshooting complex, cross‑cutting assay/instrument/system issues; drives investigations to root cause and establishes preventive controls.
• Advanced capability in data analysis and interpretation, including method performance characterization, statistical evaluation, and automation/standardization of data workflows.
• Exemplary quality mindset and documentation rigor; authors/sets standards for methods, protocols, reports, and ensures audit/inspection readiness.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multiple priorities, influence program direction, resource‑plan, remove blockers, and mentor others.
• Excellent communication skills; ability to convey risk, options, and recommendations to stakeholders and align cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods; lift up to 25 lb; use of personal protective equipment required.

Pay

Salary range: $165,000 – $193,000 (SF Bay Area). Salary ranges for non‑California locations may vary.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package includes comprehensive benefits, an equity component, and relocation assistance.

Schedule

Onsite work in San Carlos, CA with a minimum of 4 days per week onsite. Work arrangement may be adjusted based on business needs, job responsibilities, or changes to company policy.