Scientist I – Molecular Diagnostics

Viltis; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Viltis seeks a Scientist I to support our client’s Technical Product Support team in Des Plaines, IL. The role focuses on oligonucleotide manufacturing, characterization, validation, and continuous improvement for diagnostic products.

The position requires hands-on wet-lab work, data analysis, and accurate documentation within a regulated lab setting. Strong chemistry/biochemistry background and collaboration with cross-functional teams are essential.

Qualifications

• Requires wet-lab experience and strong data-analysis skills.
• Experience maintaining accurate laboratory documentation and records.
• Proficient written and verbal communication; effective collaboration in cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for diagnostic products under guidance of senior scientists.
• Design, execute, and document laboratory experiments.
• Perform testing using analytical chemistry instrumentation and methods.
• Analyze data and prepare clear summaries of findings.
• Support oligonucleotide manufacturing, characterization, and validation.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Data analysis

Documentation

Communication

Collaboration

Analytical instrumentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry / Biochemistry / Biology / Organic Chemistry

Master's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Analytical instrumentation

Job description

Scientific

Des Plaines, Illinois Contract Sep 24, 2026

Scientist I – Molecular Diagnostics

Location: Des Plaines, IL 60018

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Hours: 40 hours per week

Position Type: Full-Time Contract

Category: Scientific / Laboratory

Position Overview

Viltis is seeking a Scientist I to support our client's Technical Product Support team in Des Plaines, IL.

This role will primarily support oligonucleotide manufacturing, characterization, validation, and continuous improvement activities for diagnostic products. The Scientist I will perform hands‑on laboratory work, execute experiments, conduct analytical testing, analyze data, and assist with technical investigations and documentation.

This is an excellent opportunity for a scientist with a background in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, organic chemistry, or a related scientific discipline who is interested in molecular diagnostics, oligonucleotide chemistry, and working within a regulated laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for diagnostic products under the guidance of senior scientists and technical team members.
• Assist in the design, execution, and documentation of laboratory experiments.
• Perform testing using analytical chemistry instrumentation and laboratory methods.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and prepare clear summaries of findings.
• Perform hands‑on wet laboratory work supporting product testing, characterization, and development.
• Support oligonucleotide manufacturing, characterization, validation, and continuous improvement activities.
• Assist with oligonucleotide‑related laboratory techniques, which may include synthesis, purification, analytical characterization, and assay development.
• Learn and apply established Quality System requirements, change‑control processes, and technical impact assessments.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and other cross‑functional partners to investigate product, technical documentation, and laboratory‑related issues.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, experimental data, and technical documentation in accordance with established procedures.
• Follow applicable laboratory procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific or technical discipline such as Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.
• Prior hands‑on experience working in a wet laboratory environment.
• General understanding of organic chemistry and laboratory principles.
• Strong problem‑solving, organizational, and data‑analysis skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate laboratory documentation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effective within a cross‑functional team environment.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Experience with oligonucleotides, including synthesis, purification, analytical characterization, assay development, or related laboratory techniques.
• Working knowledge of oligonucleotide chemistry.
• Experience using analytical chemistry instrumentation.
• Experience with small‑molecule chemistry or related wet‑lab techniques.
• Familiarity with GMP, ISO, FDA regulations, or other regulated laboratory environments.
• Experience with Quality Systems, change control, validation, or technical documentation.

Advanced Degrees May Offset Required Years Of Experience.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemistry or biochemistry with hands‑on laboratory experience. Candidates with direct experience in oligonucleotide synthesis, purification, characterization, or assay development will be particularly well aligned with the position.

The successful candidate should be comfortable performing detailed laboratory work, analyzing scientific data, maintaining accurate documentation, and collaborating with scientists and engineers in a regulated product‑development environment.

Work Schedule

Monday–Friday

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

40 hours per week

On‑site in Des Plaines, Illinois

About Viltis

Viltis partners with leading organizations to connect talented professionals with opportunities across scientific, engineering, healthcare, technology, and other specialized fields. We are seeking a motivated Scientist I to join our client's team and contribute to the development and support of important diagnostic technologies.