Associate Scientist

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

1d • $60,200 - $100,400 • Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Scientist in Pfizer's Clinical Immunology & Diagnostics, Robotics & Automation group supports the vaccine research portfolio by executing automated sample preparation workflows. The role uses laboratory automation systems to produce high-quality, assay-ready materials while maintaining compliance and operational excellence.

The position involves operating, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintaining laboratory automation systems; following approved procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards; and meeting schedules, project milestones, and operational deadlines. The Associate Scientist also supports management of materials and collaborates with scientific, operational, and quality partners. The role requires significant time in a laboratory environment and includes a Sunday-through-Thursday schedule, with an 8.5-hour workday scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. according to business need. The schedule is evaluated monthly.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Experience working in a laboratory, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or academic environment.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic laboratory systems.
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and productivity.
• Curiosity about how AI tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and sit for extended periods while working at laboratory workstations, automation platforms, and computer workstations.
• Ability to analyze data and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to laboratory operations and process improvements.
• Permanent work authorization in the United States; U.S. work visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with laboratory automation, robotic liquid handling platforms such as Hamilton, Tecan, or Beckman Coulter, and high-throughput sample preparation workflows.
• Knowledge of regulated laboratory practices, data integrity principles, and quality systems such as GxP.
• Familiarity with AI-enabled tools to support problem solving and productivity.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory automation systems to ensure reliable, compliant, and efficient laboratory operations.
• Follow approved procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards, seeking guidance as appropriate.
• Complete assigned work to meet schedule demands, project milestones, and operational deadlines while maintaining quality.
• Support management of laboratory materials, reagents, controls, reference standards, and consumables needed for automated workflows.
• Collaborate with scientific, operational, and quality partners to support laboratory objectives and project deliverables.
• Maintain current departmental, quality, and safety training requirements.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid vacation, holiday, and personal days.
• Paid caregiver, parental, and medical leave.
• Medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.
• Eligibility to participate in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan, with a bonus target of 7.5% of base salary.
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level