Associate Scientist 1

Amentum•New York City, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Amentum is actively seeking applicants for an Associate Scientist 1 position in New York. The role involves performing various laboratory tasks, including handling, receipt, and processing of samples potentially containing biological threat agents. This requires physical capabilities such as lifting up to 60 lbs and performing repetitive motions for extended periods. The Associate Scientist will utilize microbiological and molecular techniques, such as DNA extraction and real-time PCR, for identifying and characterizing pathogenic agents. Work may occur in different laboratory areas with varying biosafety levels (BSL-2/BSL-3) and require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended durations. Responsibilities also include preparing reagents and samples, decontaminating workspaces and equipment, maintaining chain-of-custody, data entry, equipment calibration and maintenance, collecting and analyzing internal laboratory swipes, proper disposal of bio-hazardous waste, restocking supplies, supporting BioWatch Program logistics, conducting QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents, maintaining documentation, analyzing external QA samples, and archiving/storing/shipping samples. The position requires adherence to all safety, security, and dress code policies, and the ability to prepare technical reports and analyze data. The role demands accuracy, confidence, competency in testing methodologies, and the ability to meet deadlines. Scheduled workdays include weekends and holidays, and availability is required 24/7/365 for emergencies.

Requirements

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology, or related course work in biological sciences.
At least one (1) year of laboratory bench experience outside of an academic environment, utilizing PCR, aseptic techniques, and biological assays.
Must be able to obtain/maintain a DHS Suitability security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Biological Safety Level (BSL)-3 experience is desirable.

Responsibilities

Handling, receipt, and processing of daily operational, Quality Assurance, verification and proficiency test samples potentially containing biological threat agents.
Receiving samples may require extended walking to/from laboratory areas and up and/or down several flights of stairs.
Samples may require being transferred from one area/cart/cooler to another, requiring staff to lift ~50-60 lbs.
Processing samples requires more than one (1) hour, but typically not to exceed four (4) hours, of repetitive motion (e.g. twisting/cutting/pipetting/gripping) on a regular, if not daily, basis.
Performing non-research biological science work utilizing microbiological and molecular techniques, which currently includes DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) to identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral agents (analytical methods and technologies may change over the life of the contract).
Laboratory workflow may occur in different laboratory areas (e.g., clean, high and low titer, under different conditions, such as BSL-2/BSL-3), utilizing a variety of biological safety cabinets (BSCs), and/or hoods (e.g., laminar or dead air).
Laboratory work may require several PPE changes including, but not limited to, respiratory and full body protection (e.g., Tyvek suit) and gloves, for extended periods of time, not to exceed four (4) hours.
Preparing reagents and samples.
Decontamination of workspaces, including Biological safety cabinets, hoods/air boxes, equipment, and other items associated with processing and analysis activities. Necessitates decontamination of several rooms requiring extensive use of bleach and alcohol.
Maintaining chain-of-custody (CoC).
Interpretation of results - must be capable of independent analysis.
Data entry utilizing computerized or computer-linked systems.
Performing routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance in multiple lab areas.
Collecting, processing, and analyzing internal laboratory swipes/swabs for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) and contamination monitoring located across multiple lab areas.
Proper disposal of bio-hazardous waste.
Restocking and maintaining proper inventory (e.g., par levels, rotation of stock, expiration dates, et.,) of necessary supplies.
Supporting BioWatch Program logistics in conducting and documenting annual inventory (e.g. serial numbers, disposition, PO’s, packing slips, etc.) of DHS-procured durable equipment and property.
QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Laboratory Operations Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP).
Adhering to QA/QC requirements in accordance with the Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and the BioWatch Laboratory Operations (QAPP).
Maintaining documentation of records demonstrating compliance with applicable training/retraining, competencies, document reviews.
Analyzing routine external QA samples in accordance with the BioWatch SOP’s and QA Program guidance.
Proper archiving, storage, and shipping of samples.
Demonstrating ability to follow and adhere to written procedures and accepted practices in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, safety, security and dress code policies, procedures, and guidelines, including DHS Safeguarding Sensitive but Unclassified (For Official Use Only) Information (January 2005) when visiting or working at Government facilities.
Preparing written and oral technical reports, answering questions, and making recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for inclusion in comprehensive reports.
Accurately performing work with confidence.
Demonstrating competency in various testing methodologies (e.g., multi-center studies), evaluating potential products and processes against unique environmental backgrounds, and meeting established deadlines.