Staff Scientist I, BioSafety & PCR Expert

Amentum; Downey (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) matching

Educational reimbursement

Parental leave

Employee stock purchase plan

Tax-saving options

Disability and life insurance

Pet insurance

Job summary

Amentum invites applications for a Staff Scientist 1 in Downey, CA. The role focuses on molecular biology work, including DNA extraction and real-time PCR to characterize biological agents, while maintaining GLP and QA/QC standards.

Responsibilities include handling samples, maintaining CoC, data entry, equipment calibration, and safety PPE use. Weekend/holiday availability and DHS clearance are required.

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field with bench experience; leadership experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree requires four years lab bench experience including team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Handle, receipt, and processing of daily samples containing biological threat agents.
• Perform real-time PCR to identify pathogenic agents.
• Maintain GLP and QA/QC compliance; document results.
• Decontaminate workspaces and PPE as required; follow safety SOPs.
• Maintain chain-of-custody (CoC) across samples and data.
• Data entry and routine equipment calibration in the lab.
• Restock and maintain inventory of lab supplies and equipment.
• Support BioWatch logistics and annual inventory activities.

Skills

PCR techniques

Lab safety

Team leadership

QA/QC

Education

PhD or MSc in microbiology or related

Laboratory bench experience outside academia

Tools

BioSafety Cabinets

Autoclave operation

Job description

Amentum invites applications for a Staff Scientist 1 in Downey, CA. The role focuses on molecular biology work, including DNA extraction and real-time PCR to characterize biological agents, while maintaining GLP and QA/QC standards.

Responsibilities include handling samples, maintaining CoC, data entry, equipment calibration, and safety PPE use. Weekend/holiday availability and DHS clearance are required.