Associate Scientist I Denver

A-TEK Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A-TEK, Inc. is seeking a Molecular Testing Specialist to support federal contract requirements in a high-safety laboratory environment.

The role focuses on non-research molecular testing to rapidly identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral threat agents, with strict chain-of-custody for all samples. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in microbiology or related fields and at least one year of bench experience including PCR, aseptic techniques, and biological assays.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, or related biological sciences.
• At least one year of laboratory bench experience with PCR, aseptic techniques, and biological assays.
• BSL-3 experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Perform non-research molecular testing to identify and characterize pathogenic agents.
• Process and triage incoming biological samples, maintaining chain of custody.
• Perform and interpret specialized tests and identification of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Prepare written and oral reports and provide findings to supervisors.
• Maintain and operate laboratory equipment, including calibrations and safe operation.
• Participate in cross-training related to bioterrorism and public health emergencies.
• Adhere to proper handling and storage of various biological materials.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Aseptic techniques

Biological assays

PCR

Education

Bachelor's degree in microbiology or related sciences

Job description

Empower, Innovate, Impact! At Team A-TEK, we EMPOWER people to drive INNOVATION that IMPACTS mission!

A-TEK operates at the intersection of mission and innovation by applying our deep domain expertise across the federal markets. Embracing our digital-first strategy, A-TEK provides enhanced capabilities in application development, digital transformation, enterprise IT, and scientific services. Our solutions are designed to modernize, automate, secure, protect, and enhance the operations of our federal clients, ensuring they stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Our work is fueled by a passion to serve our clients’ needs and to protect the safety and welfare of Americans. That passion shapes how we nurture our most valuable asset – Our Employees. A-TEK actively cultivates the talent that drives our success and fosters a creative, challenging, and mission-driven work environment for current and future employees.

This position will be responsible for performing non-research molecular testing to rapidly identify and characterize potential pathogenic bacterial and viral threat agents. Ensures incoming biological samples are processed and triaged maintaining chain of custody. Performs and interprets a variety of specialized tests and strains, detection, and identification of pathogenic microorganisms. Prepares written and oral reports, answers questions, troubleshoot and makes recommendations to the supervisor for inclusion in comprehensive reports on test findings. Maintains and operates equipment including performing calibrations, adjustments, and to operate equipment and instruments properly and in a safe manner. Participates in cross training related to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies. Additionally, will be responsible for maintaining knowledge and skills related to position and program and to carry out all procedures in accordance with proper handling and storage of various biological materials. Must be available 24/7/365 to respond in case of emergency. Rotating weekends and some holidays are required. Kindly be aware that drug screening is a mandatory condition of employment for this position.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology, or related course work in biological sciences.

REQUIRES at least one year of laboratory bench experience, utilizing PCR, aseptic techniques and experience with biological assays. Laboratory training that is assigned or accompanies an associated course is not considered applicable training. Biological Safety Level (BSL)-3 experience is highly desirable.

This position supports a federal contract which requires that all employees and job applicants hold a valid Green Card or US Citizenship at the time of application.

#LI Onsite

Candidates may use tools (including AI) for proofreading or formatting; however, using any tool to fabricate, exaggerate, or misrepresent qualifications, experience, or work product is not permitted. We may assess application materials for job-related technical depth, internal consistency, and demonstrated hands-on experience, including through follow-up questions, skills assessments, or reference checks. Verification of education may be requested before or during the hiring process.

For security and identity verification purposes, participants may be asked to temporarily disable virtual backgrounds during portions of the call.

Misrepresentation or falsification may result in removal from further consideration. Candidates who need a reasonable accommodation in the application or interview process may request one.

A-TEK, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or Vietnam era or other protected Veteran status.