Staff Scientist I

A-TEK, Inc.; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading federal services company based in El Paso, Texas, is seeking a qualified individual to perform biological science work using microbiological techniques including DNA extraction and PCR. Candidates must have either a Master's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and meet specific laboratory experience criteria. This role requires handling sensitive biological samples, ensuring compliance with federal standards, and the ability to respond to emergencies 24/7.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year lab experience with PCR and biological assays.
• Minimum of four years lab experience for Bachelor’s degree holders.
• Experience as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader required.

Responsibilities

• Handle and process operational quality assurance samples.
• Prepare reagents and samples for analysis.
• Perform routine equipment calibration and cleaning.
• Maintain chain-of-custody for samples.
• Interpret results and prepare technical reports.

Skills

DNA extraction

Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

Aseptic techniques

Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)

Data entry using computerized systems

Education

Master's degree in microbiology or related field

Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline

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 biological science work utilizing microbiological and molecular techniques, including, but not limited to, DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) to rapidly identify and characterize potential pathogenic bacterial and viral threat agents.

Responsibilities

• Handling, receipt, and processing of operational, Quality Assurance (QA), and proficiency test (PT) samples potentially containing biological threat agents.
• Preparing reagents and samples.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Decontamination of workspaces, including Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs), hoods/air boxes, equipment, and other items associated with processing and analysis activities.
• Maintaining chain-of-custody (CoC).
• Interpretation of results.
• Data entry utilizing computerized or computer-linked systems.
• Performing routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance.
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing internal laboratory swipes/swabs for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) and contamination monitoring.
• Proper disposal of biohazardous waste.
• Restocking and maintaining proper inventory of necessary supplies.
• Supporting BW Program logistics in conducting and documenting annual inventory of DHS-procured durable equipment and property.
• QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Laboratory Operations Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP).
• Adhering to QA/QC requirements in accordance with the Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and the QAPP.
• Maintaining documentation of records demonstrating compliance with applicable training/retraining, competencies, and document reviews.
• Analyzing routine external QA samples in accordance with the BW SOP's and QA Program guidance.
• Proper archiving, storage, and shipping of samples.
• Follow and adhere to written procedures and accepted practices in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, safety, security and dress code policies, procedures, and guidelines, including DHS Safeguarding Sensitive but Unclassified (For Official Use Only) Information (January 2005) when visiting or working at Government facilities.
• Preparing written and oral technical reports, answering questions, and making recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for inclusion in comprehensive reports.
• Accurately performing work with confidence.
• Demonstrate competency in various testing methodologies (e.g., multi-center studies), evaluate potential products and processes against unique environmental backgrounds, and meet established deadlines.
• Must be present for all hours of the workday and be available 24/7/365 to respond in case of emergency. Rotating weekends and some holidays are required.

Qualifications

Master's degree or Ph.D. from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology or related coursework in biological sciences, and requires at least one (1) year of laboratory bench experience utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), aseptic techniques and biological assays, and at least one (1) year of experience serving as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader of a laboratory team/project.

OR

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university requires four (4) years of laboratory bench experience to include 4 (4) years of utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), aseptic techniques and biological assays, including at least one year of experience as a Team Leader/Senior Scientist. Laboratory training that is assigned or accompanies an associated course is not considered applicable training.

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.

Candidates may use tools (including AI) for proofreading or formatting; however, using any tool to fabricate, exaggerate, or misrepresent qualifications, experience, and 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.

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. Verification of education may be requested before or during the hiring process.