Sr Field Applications Scientist

Illumina; South Gate (CA); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

Illumina is hiring a Sr. Field Applications Scientist in the United States to support customers, train teams, and present genomic technologies at scientific meetings. You will troubleshoot protocols, advise on study design and product selection, and maintain deep knowledge of Illumina’s portfolio to drive customer success.

The role requires 5+ years related experience with a life sciences degree, strong communication, and CRM familiarity. On-site work in the U.S.

Qualifications

• minimum 5 years related experience with a Bachelor’s; or 3 years with a Master’s; or PhD without experience.
• BS in life sciences; advanced degree preferred.
• 2–5 years customer support experience; lab troubleshooting experience beneficial.
• CRM familiarity preferred; strong communication and relationship-building.

Responsibilities

• Support and train external clients in Illumina core technologies.
• Present technology and capabilities at scientific meetings and conferences.
• Train commercial teams for effective scientific support.
• Troubleshoot protocols and advise on study design and product selection.
• Maintain deep knowledge of Illumina products and value proposition.
• Document inquiries in Salesforce and assist with tech transfer opportunities.

Skills

Customer support

CRM systems

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Training others

Communication

Life sciences

Laboratory troubleshooting

Education

BS in life sciences

MS preferred

PhD with no experience allowed

Tools

MS Office

CRM systems

Job description

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients. Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Responsibilities

• Support and train external clients in core technologies
• Train and onboard commercial team members for effective scientific support
• Perform light activities related to equipment inspection in a laboratory setting
• Ability to present technology and capabilities in large scientific meetings and conferences
• Deliver technology presentations to potential clients
• Support commercial team and customers with technical knowledgebase and problem solving
• Advise customers on technical aspects such study design, product selection and positioning, and competitor differentiation; apply innovative solutions to address technical and strategic barriers
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of Illumina’s product portfolio and articulate the value proposition to diverse customer segments
• Assess equipment and laboratory technical capabilities for technology transfer opportunities
• Troubleshoot protocols being run in client labs
• Train sales team members on messaging, as appropriate
• Document all technical inquiries in Salesforce system

Qualifications

• Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 3 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work experience.
• BS degree in the life sciences or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 2-5 years customer support experience.
• At least 5 years laboratory experience, including technical troubleshooting.
• MS Office expertise.
• Experience in healthcare and pharmaceutical industries preferred.
• Experience training others preferred.
• Familiarity with CRM systems preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment with strict deadlines.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to establish and maintain relationships.
• Demonstrated understanding and technical mastery of the needs of scientific customers and core laboratories including experience with successful technology applications and study designs.
• Molecular biology or biochemistry experience with nucleic acid or protein research techniques desired.
• Results-oriented with a drive to find solutions to problems.
• Self‑motivated, disciplined self‑starter with an ability to work independently.
• Ability to adapt to change and work effectively on various assignments.
• Good organizational and planning skills, strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong learning agility with an ability to learn, understand, and communicate complex technical/medical terminology and to maintain the required technical expertise including competitive product knowledge.
• Excellent presentation skills.

The estimated base salary range for the Sr Field Applications Scientist role based in the United States of America is: $98,400 - $147,600. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. The range reflects long‑term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package.

We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission.

Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics.

We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race.

We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.

Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [e-mail].

To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf.

The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

The potential of genomics to change the world is unparalleled. At Illumina, we are leading the way. Our technology empowers researchers and clinicians globally to improve cancer treatments, change the course of diseases, protect the environment, and fight food insecurity. We are made up of dedicated professionals, all‑in on creating a better world – and we need every skill set on our path to making genomics useful for all. Learn more about life at Illumina.