Associate Scientist 1

Amentum•Houston, TX

19h•Onsite

About The Position

Amentum is actively seeking applicants for the Associate Scientist 1 position in Houston, TX. The Associate Scientist 1 will perform tasks and responsibilities in accordance with standard operating procedures, including handling and processing samples potentially containing biological threat agents. This role involves performing non-research biological science work using microbiological and molecular techniques such as DNA extraction and real-time PCR for identifying and characterizing pathogenic bacterial and viral agents. Responsibilities also include preparing reagents and samples, maintaining chain-of-custody, data entry, equipment calibration and maintenance, collecting and analyzing internal laboratory swipes for QA/QC, proper disposal of biohazardous waste, restocking supplies, supporting program logistics for inventory, and performing QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents. The position requires adherence to QA/QC requirements, maintaining documentation of training and competencies, analyzing external QA samples, and proper archiving, storage, and shipping of samples. The role demands the ability to follow written procedures and adhere to federal, state, and local regulations, safety, security, and dress code policies. The Associate Scientist 1 will prepare written and oral technical reports and demonstrate confidence and accuracy in performing work. Scheduled workdays include weekends and holidays, and the individual must be available 24/7/365 for emergencies.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Perform handling, receipt, and processing of operational, Quality Assurance (QA), and proficiency test (PT) samples potentially containing biological threat agents.
Perform non-research biological science work utilizing microbiological and molecular techniques, including DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) to identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral agents.
Prepare reagents and samples.
Maintain chain-of-custody.
Enter data utilizing computerized or computer-linked systems.
Perform routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance.
Collect, process, and analyze internal laboratory swipes/swabs for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) and contamination monitoring.
Properly dispose of biohazardous waste.
Restock and maintain proper inventory of necessary supplies.
Support Program logistics in conducting and documenting annual inventory of DHS-procured durable equipment and property.
Perform QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Laboratory Operations Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP).
Adhere to QA/QC requirements in accordance with the Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and the QAPP.
Maintain documentation of records demonstrating compliance with applicable training/retraining, competencies, and document reviews.
Analyze routine external QA samples in accordance with the SOP’s and QA Program guidance.
Properly archive, store, and ship samples.
Demonstrate 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.
Prepare written and oral technical reports, answer questions, and make recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for inclusion in comprehensive reports.
Accurately perform work with confidence.
Demonstrate competency in various testing methodologies, evaluating potential products and processes against unique environmental backgrounds, and meeting established deadlines.