Decontamination Biologist

Precise Systems, Inc.•Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

8d•$68,952 - $85,428•Onsite

About The Position

Precise Systems delivers integrated, mission-ready solutions that advance warfighter readiness and strengthen our nation’s most critical defense programs. Through the power of our combined capabilities, we provide deep expertise in Advanced Engineering; Digital Transformation; Electromagnetic Warfare; Interactive Training & Simulation; Physical Sciences Research; Platform Lifecycle Support; and Foreign Military Sales. Unified by decades of trusted performance and expanded through strategic growth, our team applies innovative technologies, engineering rigor, and customer-focused execution to solve complex challenges and accelerate mission success. Guided by our commitment to partnership, precision, and performance, we deliver the scalable solutions and technical excellence our customers depend on—today and into the future. Precise Systems seeks a Decontanimation Biologist with 1-5 years of molecular biology and/or microbiology experience with a specific focus on evaluation of decontamination methods and equipment. This position heavily emphasizes sample preparation and method development for the decontamination of environmental samples, military hardware, and large interior and exterior areas. The work will evaluate a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as well as toxins, in Biosafety Level (BSL) -1 and BSL-2 laboratories. The role requires dedicated problem-solving, keen attention to detail, and a strong foundation in general laboratory skills. The successful applicant will possess a demonstrated aptitude for working both independently and in collaboration with other team members, as this position spans multiple disciplines to include biologists, chemical engineers, prototype specialists, and material scientists.

Requirements

1-5 years of practical laboratory experience in standard microbiological methods for standard microbiological and viral culture inoculation, cell expression, plating, enumeration, cell lysis, DNA/RNA extraction, nucleic acid purification, viral growth, and virological techniques (plaque assays, TCID50s, neutralization assays).
Proficiency in laboratory techniques including data collection and analysis.
Strong understanding of microbiology principles.
Excellent mathematical skills for data interpretation and analysis.
Meticulous documentation in laboratory notebooks, authorship of technical reports, and drafting of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Ability to function effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team, while being self-motivated.
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for audiences with varying technical backgrounds.
Effective time management skills; self-starter; attention to detail.
Ability to independently design and execute experiments; strong critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
U.S. Citizenship is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in growing, safely handling, and manipulating microorganisms up to BSL-2.
Interest and aptitude for future training to handle and manipulate microorganisms requiring up to BSL-3 containment.
Interdisciplinary science experience (e.g., biochemistry, chemical biology, systems biology).
Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and apply concepts outside of one's core area of expertise.
Sample preparation strategies in a variety of matrices such as soil, aerosols, and water.

Responsibilities

Conduct experiments and safely perform laboratory techniques in accordance with established protocols, primarily in Biosafety Levels 1 and 2 (BSL-1 & BSL-2) environments. The position has the potential for future opportunities supporting and performing experimentation in BSL-3 containment.
Collaborate with a team to design, test, and deliver rapid, facile methods for decontaminating both small-scale test coupons, and large areas.
Collect, analyze, and interpret data while ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper functioning through regular checks and calibrations.
Document findings meticulously in laboratory notebooks.
Develop detection methods in the laboratory, optimize and streamline them for field use, troubleshoot processes and equipment, and train and prepare for field demonstrations.
Execute standard microbiological and viral methods for culture inoculation, cell expression, plating, enumeration, cell lysis, DNA/RNA extraction, nucleic acid purification, viral growth, and virological techniques (plaque assays, TCID50s, neutralization assays).
Follow decontamination methods in the laboratory, optimize them and streamline them for field use, troubleshooting processes and equipment, train and prepare for field demonstrations.
Assume responsibility for the routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment, and coordinate complex repairs with outside service vendors.
Utilize robust general laboratory skills to ensure a safe, organized, and highly functional laboratory environment.
Assist in development of new methodologies for scientific research.
Keep detailed records of laboratory operations and compile data into regular technical reports.