Biologist

Joint Research and Development, LLC • Washington, DC

111d • $85,000 - $115,000 • Onsite

About The Position

JRAD is seeking Biologists to support the Department of Homeland Security at a government site in Washington, DC. Multiple experience levels are available, from Journeyman to Senior. The role analyzes environmental or air samples for acutely hazardous biological and chemical contamination and operates and maintains laboratory equipment and systems. The position follows laboratory procedures, data-management practices, quality plans, and safety policies and regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, such as biology or biochemistry, from an accredited college or university.
• At least 10 years of experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 6 years of experience with a master’s degree.
• More than 3 years of specific experience preparing samples and quantitatively analyzing environmental samples for hazardous bacteria, viruses, and toxins using methods such as PCR, ELISA, and capillary electrophoresis.
• Demonstrated analytical laboratory skills, evidenced by participation in a proficiency test such as a Precision and Accuracy performance test or equivalent.
• Experience with quality management standards such as ISO 17025 or similar, biological sample preparation methods, techniques, regulations, protocols, and safety.
• Must be able to obtain a Department of Defense Secret security clearance and Department of Homeland Security Suitability.

Responsibilities

• Analyze environmental or air samples for acutely hazardous biological and chemical contamination.
• Operate and maintain biological laboratory equipment, including Electrochemiluminescence (ECL), Capillary Electrophoresis, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) instruments; perform basic maintenance and checks on common laboratory hardware, software, and infrastructure.
• Operate the automated liquid handling system (Biomek).
• Use the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to manage laboratory analytical data.
• Participate in laboratory proficiency testing under a strict Quality Management System (QMS).
• Maintain QAQC records, including performance charts, control limits, and detection and reporting limits for analytical methods governing laboratory instrument use.
• Follow laboratory procedures, data-management practices, and safety protocols in accordance with Laboratory Quality Assurance Plans and applicable safety policies and regulations.
• Support formal audits of laboratory quality control systems and practices, inspections of safety practices, and reviews of Job Hazard Analyses.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies.
• Work a flexible schedule, including early starts, extended workdays, and occasional weekends and holidays when needed to support the mission.

Benefits

• More paid time off than the average company upon hire (amount not specified).
• Health insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance.
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts for unreimbursed medical and dependent day care expenses.
• Disability insurance.
• 401(k) plan.
• Tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

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