Associate Scientist II, Analytical Development, Raw Materials (Contract)

Vaxcyte, Inc; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 70,257 - 77,145; Full time

Job summary

Vaxcyte, Inc. in San Carlos, California is seeking an Associate Scientist II. This position focuses on executing analytical testing and supporting method development activities in vaccine development. The ideal candidate should have experience with analytical techniques and a degree in a relevant field.

The role emphasizes teamwork, positive laboratory culture, and adherence to safety standards while managing multiple tasks effectively.

The position offers competitive compensation ranging from $51 to $56 per hour.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 2+ years of lab experience or Master’s degree with 1+ year.
• Experience with analytical techniques required.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern methods.
• Support method development and optimization activities.
• Ensure laboratory organization and compliance with safety policies.

Skills

Analytical techniques

Chromatography

Electrophoresis

Immunoassays

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant field

Tools

Analytical software

Job description

Associate Scientist II, Analytical Development, Raw Materials (Contract)

Join our Mission to Protect Humankind!

Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company engineering high-fidelity vaccines to protect humankind from the consequences of bacterial diseases. We work to eradicate or treat bacterial infections such as invasive pneumococcal disease, Group A Strep, and Shigella.

What we do is every bit as important as How we do it!

RETHINK CONVENTION: We bring creative and intellectual diversity to every facet of the work we do in order to innovate and re-innovate the way vaccines are delivered.

AIM HIGH: We embody our collectively audacious goal to courageously make the most complex biologics ever attempted to protect humankind.

LEAD WITH HEART: Everyone leads at Vaxcyte with a kindness-first, inclusive approach to collaboration and vigorous debate that advances our business objectives.

MODEL EXCELLENCE: The magnitude of our challenge requires our shared commitment to demonstrating integrity, accountability, equality and clarity across communications and decision making.

Summary

Vaxcyte has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and talented individual to join our Analytical Development team. The Associate Scientist II, Analytical Development, is responsible for executing analytical testing and supporting method development activities for biologics/vaccine development programs.

Essential Functions

Analytical Testing & Data Generation

• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods (e.g., LCMS, HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical or biophysical techniques).
• Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and buffers according to established protocols.
• Execute assays in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards (GLP/GMP as applicable).
• Perform data processing and preliminary interpretation; summarize findings for review by senior scientists.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.

Method Development & Troubleshooting (Under Supervision)

• Support method development, optimization, and qualification activities under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Assist in designing experiments to evaluate method parameters and robustness.
• Troubleshoot assay performance issues and instrument-related problems, proposing potential solutions for review.
• Participate in method transfer activities, including protocol execution and documentation.
• Contribute to drafting and revising analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

• Coordinate instrument service activities and assist with vendor interactions as needed.
• Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and proper material storage.
• Manage inventory of reagents, standards, and consumables; assist with procurement and restocking.

Safety & Compliance

• 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.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support project timelines and deliverables.
• Provide clear communication on experimental progress, risks, and results.
• Contribute to a positive, compliant, and scientifically rigorous laboratory culture.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years, or Master’s degree with 1+ years of relevant laboratory experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
• Hands‑on experience with analytical techniques such as chromatography, electrophoresis, or immunoassays is required.
• Experience supporting method development or optimization activities preferred.
• Solid understanding of analytical chemistry or biochemistry principles.
• Experience with method troubleshooting and data interpretation.
• Familiarity with analytical software and data analysis tools.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently on routine assignments and manage multiple tasks.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• 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.

Reports to: Senior Scientist, Analytical Development for Raw Materials

Hourly Range: $51 - $56 (SF Bay Area)

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.