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Applied Biotech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Drawing on a deep understanding of optical theory and applied principles, particularly in ... biotech/pharma researchers with affordable, accessible tools that ensure consistency and ...

You might act as strategic consultant to an external pharma or biotech partner in the morning ... Success in this role demands a robust grasp of statistical human genetics, applied inventively in a ...

Applied Biotech information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$25

$37

How much do applied biotech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied biotech in Virginia is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Applied Biotech vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectApplied BiotechLaboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, or related fieldsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Laboratory Technology or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsClinical, research, or industrial laboratories
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceutical, research institutionsHealthcare, research, manufacturing
Job FocusResearch, product development, experimental analysisSample testing, data recording, equipment operation

Applied Biotech professionals typically engage in research and development activities within biotech and pharmaceutical companies, requiring a strong background in biotechnology. Laboratory Technicians focus on conducting tests, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting research or clinical work. While both roles work in laboratory settings, Applied Biotech roles are more research-oriented, whereas Laboratory Technicians handle routine testing and sample processing.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in applied biotechnology roles?

Professionals in applied biotechnology often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, maintaining regulatory compliance, and effectively collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. The work can involve troubleshooting experimental protocols, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring product quality and safety standards are met. Additionally, staying current with industry advancements and integrating new scientific findings into practical applications is essential for ongoing success in the field.

What are applied biotech jobs?

Applied biotech jobs involve using biological processes and organisms to solve real-world problems in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science. Professionals in this field may work on developing new medicines, improving crop yields, or creating sustainable materials. These roles often require knowledge of genetics, molecular biology, and bioengineering, as well as laboratory and analytical skills. Applied biotech careers can be found in research labs, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech startups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied biotechnologist?

To thrive as an Applied Biotechnologist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and molecular techniques, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in biotechnology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, PCR, chromatography, and bioinformatics tools, as well as certifications like GLP or GMP, is highly valuable. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies enable accurate experimentation, data interpretation, and innovation, which are vital for advancing biotechnological solutions and ensuring regulatory compliance.
What are popular job titles related to Applied Biotech jobs in Virginia? For Applied Biotech jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Applied Biotech jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Applied Biotech jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Applied Biotech jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Applied Biotech job openings:
Infographic showing various Applied Biotech job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,508 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Technical SETA Lead - BTO with Security Clearance

ECS

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description Everforth ECS is seeking a Technical SETA Lead - BTO to work in our Arlington, VA (hybrid work schedule) office. Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. ECS seeks a Technical Science, Engineering, and Technical Advisory (SETA) candidate to provide onsite support to DARPA's Biological Technologies Office (BTO). BTO is a unique technical office that leverages the power of biology as a technology to develop revolutionary capabilities for the Department of Defense. BTO's mission focuses on ensuring U.S. technological dominance by pioneering breakthroughs in areas such as human performance, out-pacing infectious diseases, synthetic biology, neurotechnology, and the development of resilient biological systems. The successful candidate will serve as a functional lead for all Technical SETAs under this contract. The candidate will also support a DARPA Program Manager (PM) by participating in or leading all activities in project management, technical and programmatic risk analysis, program-funded test coordination, and coordination with members of the Department of Defense and interagency partners for transition. The candidate will also be responsible for coordinating meetings, assessing performer technical progress, projecting performer outcomes, and ensuring that project management best practices are followed by performers, independent verification and validation (IV&V) entities funded by DARPA, and within DARPA itself. Duties range from developing point papers, slide decks, and other materials that convey the need, status, and importance of a program to researching unique biological and biotechnological problem sets to aid in National Security priorities. Salary Range: 120,000 - 200,000 Required Skills * Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a DoD Secret clearance. * PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of experience in a research or technical advisory capacity. * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn new subjects and gain rapid insights into current and next-generation research topics, preferably with hands-on leadership of research programs at the performer level in multidisciplinary fields (e.g., the intersection of biology and materials science or electronics). Desired Skills * Prior experience as a Tech SETA supporting a DARPA Technical Office. * Experience working a program through its full life cycle (from concept development to transition). * Experience with technical research, development, and engineering across a breadth of applied biotechnology projects. * Familiarity with the DARPA technical, programmatic, and contractual environment. * Self-starter who is willing to both take the lead and provide support in a team within a complex, fast-paced, cross-disciplinary work environment. * Experience interfacing with the FDA, NIH, or other regulatory/health-focused government agencies. ECS Federal LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis any characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local jurisdiction law. is the federal segment of , a $4B global organization with over 10,000 employees. Our nearly 3,500 professionals deliver advanced technology solutions in data and AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise transformation, serving defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Our work powers mission-critical outcomes, strengthens technology partnerships, and creates meaningful opportunities for our people. We are defined by a commitment to excellence in delivery, a culture of innovation, and an environment where talent can thrive and grow. We value: * Attracting and developing top talent and high-performing teams * Fostering a culture that is engaging, accountable, and mission-driven Meet the challenge. Make a difference with Everforth ECS!