Molecular Scientist

Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products, and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi‑national corporation, a small start‑up or a government agency. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply. 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 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 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. Work Environment Where You Succeed For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world. You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to: Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery Partner with world‑class experts in a collaborative environment Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders Give back to and improve our communities Vaccinations & Safety Protocols Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws). Equal Opportunity Employer Statement We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran‑status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle. The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authority to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department. #J-18808-Ljbffr