Scientist II / Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer

Orion Group; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Orion Project Services is seeking a Scientist II / Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer for a one-year onsite contract in South San Francisco, CA. The role focuses on discovery research support, producing and characterizing biologics, and coordinating with external CROs to deliver protein products and quality attributes.

You will conduct LC/MS analyses, troubleshoot instrumentation, and contribute to method development while collaborating across a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• BS/MS/PhD in chemistry or biochemistry with relevant years of experience.
• Experience with LC/MS and protein characterization workflows.
• Proficiency with data processing and bioinformatics workflows.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mass spectrometry analyses for comprehensive characterization of biologics.
• Maintain and troubleshoot LC/MS equipment.
• Design and execute production of biotherapeutic proteins with external CRO vendors.
• Guide product quality attributes and deliver results to therapeutic partners.
• Collaborate with MS experts to assess new bioanalytical technology.
• Perform lab research and method development autonomously.

Skills

Mass spectrometry

Automation programming

Python / scripting

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

BS in chemistry/biochemistry

MS in chemistry/biochemistry

PhD in chemistry/biochemistry

Tools

Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF

LC/MS instrumentation

Agilent HPLC

Waters UPLC

Protein Metrics

Biosphere

Waters Connect

UNIFI

Job description

Scientist II / Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer

Hourly Rate: $60 - $64/hr with medical benefits available at a cost. Contract Length: 1 year initial contract with possibility of extension. Location: South San Francisco, CA. Work Schedule: 100% onsite, Monday – Friday.

Orion Project Services is teaming up with a market leading pharmaceutical company to find a Scientist II / Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer for a one-year contract in South San Francisco, with the possibility of extension.

In this onsite role, you’ll support discovery research by producing and characterizing biologics such as monoclonal antibodies and multispecific proteins. You’ll conduct LC/MS analyses, maintain and troubleshoot mass spectrometry equipment, coordinate protein production with external partners, and share findings with a collaborative, multidisciplinary team. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to method development and explore new bioanalytical technologies.

Job Description:

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) within a market leading pharmaceutical company is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Biotherapeutics group at their Bay Area (ABA) site in South San Francisco. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to various Discovery Research Therapeutic Areas (TAs) and projects by providing production and analytical characterization of biologics and biopharmaceutical products, such as monoclonal antibodies, multi-specifics, and other antibody-like formats. As part of our team, your work will drive the discovery and development of next generation biologics through production and interrogation of protein attributes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct mass spectrometry analyses for comprehensive characterization of biologics and biotherapeutics, including intact, reduced, and subunit approaches.
• Ensure the optimal functioning of LC/MS equipment through routine maintenance and effective troubleshooting.
• Design and execute production of biotherapeutic proteins to external CRO vendors, provide guidance on desired product quality attributes, then deliver the results of the production to our therapeutic partners.
• Contribute to team discussions, share valuable insights, and present experimental findings and progress updates to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborates with MS experts across our Research & Development Division to assess and implement new bioanalytical technology.
• Independently and autonomously perform laboratory research and method development with minimal supervision, demonstrating high productivity and scientific initiative.

Qualifications:

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline with typically 7+ (BS), 5+ (MS), or 0+ (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise with various mass spectrometry platforms, including Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF, along with proficiency in MS workflows for protein characterization and the use of MS software for analyzing both routine and complex datasets.
• Proficiency in data processing and bioinformatic and statistical workflows (e.g., Protein Metrics, Biosphere, Waters Connect, UNIFI)
• Proven experience in the application of LC/MS analyses for interrogation of monoclonal antibodies, multispecific biologics, and protein therapeutics to provide sequence verification, post-translational modification, desired/expected chain pairing, and identity of DLP profile.
• Experience with coding/programming (e.g., Python, R, or relevant scripting languages) and in developing automated data workflows or solutions.
• Experience with chromatography and purification systems (protein A/G, AEX, SEC, mixed-mode with AKTA systems), and analytical instruments (Agilent HPLC, Waters UPLC and LC/MS, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE) is a plus
• Goal-oriented team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills, a strong positive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.