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Assay Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr Director, Assay DevelopmentBillerica, MA Quanterix is a global leader in ultra-sensitive biomarker detection, enabling breakthroughs in disease research, diagnostics, and drug development. Its ...

Scientist, Assay Development

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The successful candidate will work in the Precision Biology Services group and be responsible for developing ...

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The successful candidate will work in the Precision Biology Services group and be responsible for developing ...

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HTS Assay Development & Screening: High-throughput screening in 1536- and 384-well plate formats. * Biophysical Assays: Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) preferred. * Assay Technologies: HTRF ...

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Scientist, Assay Development

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

RareCyte is looking for an Assay Development Scientist based in our Seattle, WA office. The successful candidate will work in the Precision Biology Services group and be responsible for developing ...

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Assay Development information

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How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in the United States is $38.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.37 and $46.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common challenges faced when developing new assays, and how can they be addressed?

Assay Development professionals often encounter challenges such as optimizing assay sensitivity and specificity, troubleshooting inconsistent results, and adapting protocols for high-throughput environments. These issues are typically addressed through systematic optimization of reagents and conditions, rigorous validation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams like R&D, quality assurance, and automation specialists. Clear documentation and regular team meetings also help in quickly identifying and resolving technical hurdles, ensuring the assay meets project goals and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in assay development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Assay Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced training. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software, and validation protocols is typically required, along with experience in techniques like ELISA, PCR, or cell-based assays. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of assays, which are critical for research, diagnostics, and product development.

What is the difference between Assay Development vs Laboratory Scientist?

AspectAssay DevelopmentLaboratory Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsResearch labs, hospitals, biotech companies
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing assays for research and diagnosticsPerforming experiments, data collection, and analysis

Assay Development focuses on creating and optimizing diagnostic or research assays, while Laboratory Scientists perform experiments and analyze data within the lab. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does an assay development scientist do?

An assay development scientist designs, optimizes, and validates laboratory tests to measure specific biological or chemical substances. They work with techniques such as ELISA, PCR, or spectrophotometry, often using specialized equipment and adhering to regulatory standards to ensure assay accuracy and reliability.

What is assay development?

Assay development is the process of designing and optimizing laboratory tests to detect or measure specific biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, or small compounds. It involves selecting appropriate techniques, reagents, and conditions to ensure accuracy, sensitivity, and reproducibility, often requiring knowledge of biochemistry and instrumentation. Assay development is essential in fields like diagnostics, drug discovery, and research to generate reliable data for decision-making.
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What states have the most Assay Development jobs?

States with the most job openings for Assay Development jobs include:

Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,420 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Technologist - Assay Development

Fulgent Therapeutics

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and optimize molecular assays for genetic testing.

  • Lead research projects to investigate the feasibility of new assay concepts and drive assay validation and implementation.

  • Troubleshoot, maintain, and develop new tests in collaboration with the molecular department.


Job description

About Us
CSI Laboratories, a Fulgent Genetics Company, is a nationally recognized cancer testing and diagnostics laboratory experienced in helping pathologists and oncologists diagnose and treat cancer patients.
Founded in 2011, our parent entity, Fulgent Genetics, has evolved into a premier full-service genomic testing company built around a foundational technology platform.
Through our diverse testing menu, Fulgent is focused on transforming patient care in oncology, anatomic pathology, infectious and rare diseases, and reproductive health. We believe that by providing a wide range of effective, flexible testing options in conjunction with best-in-class service and support, we can redefine the way medicine is managed for patients and clinicians alike.
Since integrating with our therapeutic development business, Fulgent is also developing drug candidates for treating a broad range of cancers using a novel nanoencapsulation and targeted therapy platform. By merging our fields of expertise, we aim to become a fully integrated precision medicine company.
Summary of Position
The Assay Development Technologist is a cross-functional role comprised of assay development in collaboration with the Molecular Director, Senior Management, and the Molecular Department to drive decision-making and data-driven product development.
The Assay Development Technologist will initiate study projects, investigate the feasibility of potential projects, design and develop methods and assays, generate and interpret study results through the application of scientific principles and analytical techniques, and drive novel molecular biology assays from research to product proof-of-concept.
The Assay Development Technologist will be responsible for designing and developing fully automated, high-throughput genetic tests from concept through commercial launch. The assay development technologist strives to create a highly collaborative environment, with an emphasis on cross-functional projects. Continually assessing and integrating cutting-edge technology into our laboratory and development process, as well as will playing a key role in developing new tests as well as troubleshooting and maintaining existing assays in collaboration with the molecular department.
Key Job Elements
  • Demonstrate high attention to detail with a depth of knowledge in the principles of molecular biology and the use of instrumentation for genetic testing.
  • Work with Molecular Director and Senior Management to identify new assays with the potential to bring them in house
  • Lead research and development by designing new or optimizing existing molecular assays
  • Utilize molecular biology techniques and instrumentation for the successful validation and implementation of assays into established workflows.
  • Author all documents needed for assay development and implementation (i.e. validation plan, SOP, etc.)
  • Identify bottlenecks and potential solutions for streamlining testing procedures
  • Play a key role in developing new tests as well as troubleshooting and maintaining existing assays
  • Serves as SME and trains team members
  • Performs routine assays and maintains proficiency in those assays

Knowledge/Experience
  • Masters or Bachelor's Degree with extensive experience with assay development.
  • Experience with human genetics and molecular biology techniques.
  • Prior experience with laboratory regulations (CLIA, CAP, NYS) highly preferred.
  • Ability to multi-task, work independently, and prioritize tasks.
  • MB or equivalent certification preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities
  • No

Reports To
  • Molecular Manager

Environment
Fulgent Therapeutics LLC/CSI is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The term "qualified individual with a disability" means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the position.
  • A moderate amount of standing is often required.
  • Potential Exposure to toxic chemicals and the biohazards associated with handling blood, solid tissue, and body fluids.
  • Possess manual dexterity to perform analytical testing.

Please note that Fulgent (and its affiliated companies, including Inform Diagnostics and CSI Laboratories) does not accept unsolicited information and/or resumes from search firms or agencies for our job postings. Search firms or agencies without an applicable contract and/or express approval to recruit for the role in question - that choose to submit a resume or client information to our career page or to any employee of Fulgent - will not be eligible for payment of any fee(s), and any associated shared data will become the property of Fulgent.