Job Summary

We are currently seeking a Scientist. This position is a full-time opportunity located in Research Triangle Park, NC. Please note: 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.

Responsibilities

As a Scientist, the selected individual will lead BSL-2 laboratory operations and provide technical and scientific direction across multiple biological disciplines. Responsibilities may include:

• 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
• Some domestic travel is anticipated

Key Qualifications

• 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
• Some domestic travel is anticipated
• Sole U.S. citizenship required, with the ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances as a condition of employment

Preferred Qualifications

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

Compensation Data

Battelle is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range for this role is $80,000 - $105,000 per year, in addition to our comprehensive benefits package. A candidate's salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.

Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.

• Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off-giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
• Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs.
• Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
• Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
• Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
• Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
• Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.