Staff Scientist 1

Amentum•Downey, CA

9d•$70,000 - $73,000•Onsite

About The Position

Amentum is seeking a Staff Scientist 1 in Downey, California. The position performs laboratory operations in accordance with standard operating procedures and requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DHS Suitability security clearance. The work involves handling, receiving, processing, analyzing, archiving, storing, and shipping operational, quality assurance, verification, proficiency, and external QA samples that may contain biological threat agents. Laboratory work includes non-research biological science using microbiological and molecular techniques, currently including DNA extraction and real-time PCR to identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral agents. Methods and technologies may change over the life of the contract. The role works across laboratory areas and conditions, including BSL-2 and BSL-3 environments, using biological safety cabinets and various types of hoods. Duties include preparing reagents and samples; decontaminating laboratory spaces and equipment; maintaining chain of custody; independently interpreting results; entering data into computerized systems; calibrating, cleaning, assembling, and maintaining equipment; monitoring laboratory contamination; managing biohazardous waste and autoclave loads; and maintaining supply inventory. The position also supports BioWatch logistics and inventory, performs reagent QA/QC and acceptance testing, maintains quality and training documentation, and adheres to applicable SOPs, QAPPs, regulations, and security and safety procedures. The Staff Scientist prepares written and oral technical reports, answers questions, and makes recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist. The role requires accurate, confident work, the ability to follow written procedures, demonstrate competency in testing methodologies, evaluate products and processes, and meet deadlines. Scheduled workdays include weekends and holidays; the employee must be present for all hours of the workday and available 24/7/365 for emergencies. The job includes physical and laboratory demands such as extended walking and stair use; repetitive motions; lifting and moving samples, supplies, equipment, and waste weighing up to 70 pounds; and wearing respiratory and full-body protective equipment for periods of up to four hours. The listed compensation range is $70,000–$73,000. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, retirement benefits including 401(k) matching, educational reimbursement, parental leave, an employee stock purchase plan, tax-saving options, disability and life insurance, and pet insurance. Benefits may vary by employment type, location, and applicable agreements.

Requirements

Must be able to obtain and maintain a DHS Suitability security clearance.
A Ph.D. or master's degree from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology, or related biological sciences coursework, plus at least one year of laboratory bench experience outside an academic environment using PCR, aseptic techniques, and biological assays, and at least one year of experience as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader of a laboratory team/project; alternatively, a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and four years of laboratory bench experience outside an academic environment, including at least one year as a Team Leader/Senior Scientist.
Ability to perform independent analysis and interpretation of results.
Ability to follow written procedures and accepted practices and comply with applicable regulations, safety, security, and dress-code requirements.
Ability to perform repetitive laboratory motions and handle physical tasks, including lifting items weighing up to 70 pounds.
Availability to work scheduled weekends and holidays, remain present for all hours of the workday, and be available 24/7/365 for emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Biological Safety Level (BSL)-3 experience.

Responsibilities

Handle, receive, and process daily operational, QA, verification, and proficiency test samples that may contain biological threat agents.
Perform non-research biological science work using microbiological and molecular techniques, including DNA extraction and real-time PCR.
Prepare reagents and samples in accordance with applicable procedures.
Work in different laboratory areas and conditions, including BSL-2/BSL-3 environments, using biological safety cabinets and hoods.
Decontaminate workspaces, biological safety cabinets, hoods, equipment, and other items associated with processing and analysis.
Maintain chain-of-custody records and independently interpret results.
Enter data using computerized or computer-linked systems.
Perform routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance in multiple laboratory areas.
Collect, process, and analyze internal laboratory swipes and swabs for QA/QC and contamination monitoring.
Dispose of biohazardous waste properly and collect and load waste into the autoclave when required.
Restock supplies and maintain inventory, including par levels, stock rotation, and expiration dates.
Support BioWatch Program logistics, including conducting and documenting annual inventories of DHS-procured equipment and property.
Perform QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in accordance with SOPs and the Laboratory Operations QAPP.
Adhere to QA/QC requirements under the Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and BioWatch Laboratory QAPP.
Maintain documentation of training, retraining, competencies, and document reviews.
Analyze routine external QA samples in accordance with BioWatch SOPs and QA Program guidance.
Archive, store, and ship samples properly.
Follow written procedures and accepted practices in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations and applicable safety, security, and dress-code policies.
Prepare written and oral technical reports, answer questions, and make recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for comprehensive reports.
Demonstrate competency in testing methodologies, evaluate potential products and processes against environmental backgrounds, and meet established deadlines.
Work scheduled weekends and holidays, be present for all hours of the workday, and remain available 24/7/365 in case of emergency.