Scientist II, Analytical Development

Vaxcyte•San Carlos, CA

2d•$146,000 - $171,000•Onsite

About The Position

Vaxcyte is seeking an energetic and talented individual to join its Analytical Development team. The Scientist II, Analytical Development, will be responsible for executing analytical testing and contributing to analytical method development for biologics/vaccine development programs. This role involves performing routine and non-routine analytical assays using modern techniques, supporting method optimization and troubleshooting, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives with moderate supervision. The position requires hands-on laboratory experience, strong technical execution, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently plan and execute work, analyze data, and escalate investigations as needed. The role also involves authoring and maintaining technical documentation, including method protocols, development summaries, and SOPs, and communicating experimental results to internal stakeholders.

Requirements

PhD, MS or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
PhD with 2–5 years; MS with 7+ years; BS with 10+ years of relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or related field.
Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as UV-Vis, HPLC, CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR.
Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry/biochemistry principles with demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
Proven ability to independently troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision making.
Proficient with analytical software, data processing workflows, and statistical tools.
Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail; consistently produces 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; able 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) required.
Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Nice To Haves

Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities preferred.

Responsibilities

Contribute to method development, optimization, and qualification/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 a structured approach; interpret data to identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
Support and/or execute method transfer activities, including protocol preparation, training support, execution at receiving labs, and resolution of transfer issues.
Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports; ensure clear documentation of experimental rationale, results, and conclusions for internal review and stakeholder communication.
Partner effectively with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs.
Communicate experimental progress, data interpretation, and emerging risks clearly; propose mitigation plans and align next steps with stakeholders.
Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, and scientifically rigorous lab culture; model good documentation practices and data integrity expectations.
Train and mentor junior staff/new team members on assays, workflows, and troubleshooting; provide day-to-day technical guidance and feedback.
Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods (e.g., HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical/biophysical techniques).
Execute assays in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards (GLP/GMP as applicable); identify and troubleshoot common issues.
Perform data processing and interpretation; summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
Maintain accurate, timely documentation in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems; contribute to clear technical communications to project and cross-functional stakeholders.
Coordinate routine instrument maintenance and service activities; interface with vendors as needed and support timely issue resolution.
Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling/storage practices.
Manage inventory of reagents, standards, and consumables; initiate procurement, track critical supplies, and support forecasting to avoid stockouts.
Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices.
Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to hazardous material handling procedures.
Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.