Laboratory Scientist

Merrick is seeking a Temporary Laboratory Scientist with a background and interest in microbiology, virology, or related fields to support biorepository characterization and inventory assessments and day-to-day science functions at our client site, Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), New York – this is not located at a Merrick office.

Typical salary range for this position is $50,000.00-$75,000.00 annually. Base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and education level.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Demonstrate laboratory skills and safety procedures including proper handling of chemicals and/or biologicals, use of aseptic technique
• Dispositioning of biological materials
• Record data in appropriate format within digitized data management systems, to include translation of data in notebooks, batch records, or advanced databases
• Deactivation and decontamination of laboratory equipment
• Monitor laboratory equipment and report issues if equipment is not functioning within appropriate specifications
• Demonstrate advanced computer skills, including ability to support technology transfer between systems
• Gain familiarity with biorepository and select agent inventory management systems, and support transfer of data, as needed
• Work collaboratively with scientists and biorepository personnel across multiple federal agencies and contractor teams
• Communicate and coordinate with all project stakeholders as required for successful project execution.
• Maintain and develop positive client relationships.
• Apply analytical skills to project approaches, standards, and solutions, throughout project lifecycle
• May be tasked to participate in a variety of professional and/or social societies or programs designed to elevate Merrick’s professional and community standing.
• Maintain a high degree of professionalism, integrity, and business ethics.
• Actively participate in, and remain current with, client site and Merrick regulatory and training requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of one (1) year of laboratory work experience.
• Demonstrated history of performing and reporting technical work in a laboratory.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interface successfully with clients and team members.
• Have or be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance for work with the US Federal Government.
• Bachelor’s Degree from accredited University of Higher Education Institution in microbiology, virology, or related field.
• Good working knowledge of biosafety.
• Due to biosecurity requirements, employees may not own or work with cloven-hoofed animals, rabbits, pigs, or chickens.
• All employees are required to pass a background check based on criteria determined by the client and Merrick.
• Candidates must be willing to relocate to a location within 45 minutes of the Old Saybrook, CT or Orient Point, NY ferry docks.

• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Past performance working in or for U.S. federal agencies (i.e., DoD, DHS, HHS) strongly preferred.
• Experience with laboratory inventory management and related data sets strongly preferred.
• Past or current U.S. Federal Select Agent Program clearance preferred.

PERKS

• Employee Owned – all eligible U.S. employees have an Employee Stock Ownership Account.
• Robust Employee Referral Program.
• Annual performance and compensation reviews.
• Professional Training and Development.
• Employee Recognition Awards.
• Peer Mentor Program
• And Much More!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Apply online only. No e-mail, hard copy or third-party resumes accepted.
• At Merrick, every resume is carefully reviewed by our team of experienced human recruiters-never by AI. We are committed to a fully human-centered hiring process, ensuring each candidate receives thoughtful, personalized attention at every stage.
• Merrick & Company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package which includes health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), and paid time off (PTO).
• Merrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
• Employment with Merrick is contingent upon completion of a pre-employment background check, MVR check, and drug screen.

Merrick & Company is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.