VSD Automation - Assistant Scientist

Thermo Fisher Scientific enables customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. Join our team to contribute to meaningful work with a global impact, supporting life-changing therapies and advancing scientific research.

About the role

This position involves performing routine to complex sample preparation and analysis to quantitatively measure pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical compounds in various formulations and biological matrices. You will follow validated or experimental analytical procedures, review and compile results, and ensure compliance with SOP acceptance criteria, methodology, and product specifications.

Responsibilities

• Consistently document work accurately within appropriate systems.
• Maintain high-end automated and technical equipment.
• Develop basic troubleshooting skills for hardware and software.
• Operate with direct supervision and achieve Power User proficiency (e.g., CAL/QC/SPF Preps, Sample Dilution Block Preps).
• Follow best practices and SOP requirements.
• Develop communication and time management skills.
• Adhere to GLP principles in all activities.
• Support testing and analysis in the immunochemistry and vaccine department (e.g., run assays, prepare samples, maintain lab documentation).
• Perform tasks requiring manual dexterity (e.g., pipetting, operating lab equipment).
• Conduct immunoassays, ELISA, or similar testing.
• Communicate effectively and follow detailed written and verbal instructions.
• Work cooperatively in a team or independently with supervision.
• Maintain a laboratory notebook and complete documentation clearly and accurately.
• Use analytical instrumentation proficiently.
• Plan, schedule, and execute work for successful project completion.
• Operate computers and data acquisition programs.
• Maintain a positive attitude and work well with others.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in lab sciences such as biology, biochemistry, immunology, chemistry, molecular biology, or a similar field.
• Previous experience (0-1 year) or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Able to lift and move objects up to 40 pounds without assistance.
• Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and safety standards.
• Ability to work in cold rooms/freezers (-22°F/-6°C), fluctuating temperatures, and loud environments.
• Willingness to work with hazardous/toxic materials and at heights.
• Comfortable standing for a full shift and wearing PPE (e.g., safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs).
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including strong odors and outdoor weather.
• Ability to communicate, receive, and understand information with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in using standard office equipment and technology.

Skills

• Experience with immunoassays, ELISA, or similar testing.
• Manual dexterity for lab tasks (e.g., pipetting, operating equipment).
• Proficiency in analytical instrumentation and data acquisition programs.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritize multiple projects.
• Positive attitude and ability to collaborate effectively.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, including health incentive programs.
• Employee assistance and family support programs (e.g., commuter benefits, tuition reimbursement).
• At least 120 hours of paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays, and paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding, 8 weeks for caregiver leave).
• Accident, life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
• Retirement and savings programs, including a competitive 401(k) with company match.
• Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock.
• Annual bonus based on company, team, and individual performance.

Pay

The hourly pay range for this position in Virginia is $20.00–$26.00.

Schedule

Full-time, 2nd shift (Monday–Friday).