Scientist II, Analytical Development

Vaxcyte•San Carlos, CA

2d•$151,000 - $176,000•Onsite

About The Position

Vaxcyte is seeking an energetic and talented scientist to join its Analytical Development team and support ongoing laboratory development activities. The role contributes to analytical method development, optimization, qualification and validation readiness, and method transfer. It also involves designing and executing experiments, troubleshooting assays and instruments, interpreting data, and documenting outcomes and recommendations. The Scientist II performs routine and non-routine analytical testing using techniques such as HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, and other biochemical or biophysical methods. The role includes processing and interpreting data, preparing and revising methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports, and maintaining accurate laboratory records. The position also supports laboratory operations, including instrument maintenance coordination, inventory and supply management, sample tracking, and maintaining an organized and compliant laboratory. The scientist collaborates with cross-functional teams, communicates progress and risks, and trains and mentors junior staff. The role requires adherence to EHS policies, laboratory safety practices, applicable quality standards, and data integrity expectations. It is onsite in San Carlos, California, with a minimum of four days per week onsite; the arrangement may change based on business needs, responsibilities, or company policy.

Requirements

PhD, MS, or bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
Relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or a related field: PhD with 2–5 years, MS with 7+ years, or BS with 10+ years. Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
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 a record of producing high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
Ability to independently plan and prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet timelines with minimal supervision.
Clear 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 lbs.
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.
Ability to contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Nice To Haves

Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities.

Responsibilities

Contribute to method development, optimization, and qualification and validation readiness activities.
Design and execute experiments to evaluate critical method parameters and define system suitability and control strategies.
Troubleshoot assay and instrument performance issues, identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
Support or execute method transfers, including protocol preparation, training support, execution at receiving laboratories, and resolution of transfer issues.
Support laboratory management and operations, including sample and inventory tracking.
Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports, documenting experimental rationale, results, and conclusions.
Coordinate routine instrument maintenance and service, working with vendors and the laboratory management team to resolve issues.
Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling and storage.
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, and emerging risks; propose mitigation plans and align next steps with stakeholders.
Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, scientifically rigorous laboratory culture and model good documentation and data integrity practices.
Train and mentor junior staff and new team members on assays, workflows, and troubleshooting, providing day-to-day technical guidance and feedback.
Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods and applicable approved methods, SOPs, and quality standards.
Process and interpret data, summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
Maintain accurate and timely laboratory notebook or electronic records and contribute to technical communications.
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.