Molecular Scientist

Battelle • RTP, NC

3d • $80,000 - $105,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Battelle is seeking a Scientist for a full-time opportunity in Research Triangle Park, NC. This position is contingent upon contract award. In this technical leadership role, you will serve as the lead for daily operations in a mobile Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory, working alongside a staff member to perform sample analysis in support of the client's mission. You will provide hands-on leadership for laboratory workflow, assign and monitor analytical tasks, ensure timely and accurate execution of methods, and support continuity of operations during routine and surge activities. As a subject matter expert, you will apply technical judgment to troubleshoot analytical issues, guide assay performance and acceptance decisions, and ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with established procedures, quality requirements, and operational priorities.

Requirements

• Minimum BS + 4 years of experience in chemistry, biology, physical science, or a related field
• Four or more years of experience in a laboratory-based facility in a scientific advisory and supervisory role, with a proven ability to plan, lead, and conduct research studies
• Proven ability to conduct experiments in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Ability to serve as the on-site laboratory supervisor
• Ability to succinctly assimilate and communicate complex scientific data for customer and end-user needs
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a team environment, mentor and train staff members, and collaborate openly with colleagues across multiple disciplines
• Ability and willingness to work in BSL-2 laboratories
• Sufficiently medically fit to perform assigned laboratory duties, including the ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), lift up to 25 pounds, and work in proximity to hazardous and infectious materials
• Sole U.S. citizenship required, with the ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances as a condition of employment

Nice To Haves

• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
• Experience developing SOPs and laboratory procedures

Responsibilities

• Lead the setup and commissioning of a BSL-2 laboratory, including infrastructure recommendations, safety protocol development, and certification processes
• Apply and advise on molecular biology techniques in support of EPA environmental research, with a focus on water quality and pathogen detection, including Real-Time PCR, Electrochemiluminescence (ECL), DNA isolation and quantification, and traditional culture-based microbiological methods
• Design and write laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and testing protocols
• Advise and collaborate with EPA personnel and stakeholders across multiple program areas
• Lead day-to-day laboratory operations, staff oversight, and data quality assurance
• Mentor laboratory personnel in key technical skill areas, including pathogen detection method development and molecular biology techniques
• Identify and implement improvements to existing laboratory space to ensure full BSL-2 compliance
• Develop enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols for BSL-2+ operations as needed

Benefits

• Compressed work schedule (every other Friday off)
• Hybrid work arrangement (60% in-office, 40% remote)
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives
• Supplemental benefits
• Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution
• Tuition assistance

What This Job Offers

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