Staff Scientist-LCMS

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize targeted LC–MS methods (MRM/PRM) for small molecules, lipids, and/or peptides
• Design and refine LC gradients to achieve optimal separation, sensitivity, and throughput
• Optimize MS/MS parameters (collision energy, resolution, scan speed, dwell time)
• Establish and implement quantification strategies (internal standards, calibration curves, QC normalization)
• Evaluate assay performance: precision, accuracy, linearity, dynamic range, LLOQ/ULOQ
• Assess and mitigate matrix effects and ion suppression
• Operate and troubleshoot high-resolution MS systems (e.g., Orbitrap) and/or triple quadrupole platforms
• Support method transfer across instruments and sites
• Integrate workflows with automated sample preparation systems
• Document methods and support CLIA/FDA-aligned validation and SOP development

Qualifications

• PhD (or MSc with strong experience) in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in targeted LC–MS method development
• Hands-on expertise with PRM (HRMS)
• Strong understanding of quantitative LC–MS workflows in biological matrices

Preferred Experience

• In lipidomics, proteomics, or clinical assays
• Familiarity with regulated environments (CLIA/FDA/ISO)
• Experience with high-throughput or automated workflows
• Experience with biological specimens
• Experience with high resolution mass spectrometry

Ai & Digital Fluency

Demonstrate curiosity, sound judgment, and the ability to critically evaluate and responsibly leverage AI-enabled tools in accordance with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of work.

Hybrid Work Model

This section is applicable to onsite employees who are eligible for hybrid work location as specified by management and related policies. Guardant has defined days for in-person/onsite collaboration and work-from-home days for individual-focused time. All U.S. employees who live within 50 miles of a Guardant facility will be required to be onsite on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. We have found aligning our scheduled in-office days allows our teams to do the best work and creates the focused thinking time our innovative work requires. At Guardant, our work model has created flexibility for better work-life balance while keeping teams connected to advance our science for our patients.

Pay

The annualized base salary ranges for the primary location and any additional locations are listed below. This range does not include benefits or, if applicable, bonus, commission, or equity. Each candidate’s compensation offer will be based on multiple factors including, but not limited to, geography, experience, education, job-related skills, job duties, and business need.

• Primary Location: Palo Alto, CA - $150,100 - $206,400
• Other US Location(s): $127,585 - $175,440
• If the role is performed in Colorado, the pay range for this job is: $135,090 - $185,760

Work Environment

• Routine office supplies
• Office equipment
• Routine lifting of office supplies
• High noise levels
• Fumes
• Biohazard material in the laboratory environment
• Sit for extended periods of time

Background Screening

A background screening including criminal history is required for this role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Guardant Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.