Scientist II, Analytical Development

Vaxcyte•San Carlos, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Vaxcyte is seeking an energetic and talented Scientist II to join its Analytical Development team. The role supports ongoing laboratory development activities and contributes to analytical method development, optimization, qualification and validation readiness. The Scientist designs and executes experiments, evaluates critical method parameters, establishes system suitability and control strategies, troubleshoots assays and instruments, and supports method transfers. The position also involves analytical testing, data interpretation, documentation, laboratory operations, instrument coordination, inventory management, safety and compliance, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. The Scientist trains and mentors junior staff and contributes to a scientifically rigorous, compliant, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture. The role is onsite in San Carlos, California, a minimum of four days per week. It reports to the Senior Manager, Analytical Development. The position is not eligible for relocation assistance. The stated salary range for the San Francisco Bay Area is $151,000–$176,000; ranges for non-California locations may vary. The compensation package includes comprehensive benefits and an equity component.

Requirements

PhD, MS, or bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
Relevant industry experience in analytical development, quality control, or a related field: PhD with 2–5 years, MS with 7 or more years, or BS with 10 or more years.
Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, UV-Vis, HPLC, CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, liquid chromatography, enzyme kinetics, ELISA, Western blot, and PCR.
Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry or biochemistry principles and demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
Ability to independently troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision-making.
Proficiency with analytical software, data-processing workflows, and statistical tools.
Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail, with consistent production of high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
Ability to independently plan and prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet timelines with minimal supervision.
Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarize complex data, present recommendations, and collaborate across functions.
Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
Use of personal protective equipment is required.
Commitment to contributing to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Nice To Haves

Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities.

Responsibilities

Contribute to analytical method development, optimization, and qualification and validation readiness activities.
Design and execute experiments to evaluate critical method parameters and define appropriate system suitability and control strategies.
Troubleshoot assay and instrument performance issues using structured approaches; identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
Support and execute method transfer activities, including protocol preparation, training, execution at receiving laboratories, and resolution of transfer issues.
Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using methods such as HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical or biophysical techniques.
Execute assays according to approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards, including GLP/GMP as applicable.
Process and interpret data; summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports, and maintain accurate, timely laboratory documentation.
Coordinate routine instrument maintenance and service activities, interface with vendors and laboratory management, and support timely issue resolution.
Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling and storage practices.
Manage reagent, standard, and consumable inventory; initiate procurement, track critical supplies, and support forecasting.
Partner with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs.
Communicate experimental progress, data interpretation, emerging risks, mitigation plans, and recommended next steps to stakeholders.
Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, scientifically rigorous, positive, and inclusive laboratory culture; model good documentation and data integrity practices.
Train and mentor junior staff and new team members on assays, workflows, and troubleshooting, and provide day-to-day technical guidance and feedback.
Follow EHS policies and laboratory safety practices; safely handle chemicals and biological materials, dispose of waste properly, and follow hazardous material procedures.
Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.