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Assay Development Scientist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Smithers Group

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Our expert scientists perform large molecule bioanalysis, assay development, validation, and sample analysis at our GLP, GCP , and CLIA compliant laboratories. Smithers PDS is seeking a Scientist to ...

Smithers

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Our expert scientists perform large molecule bioanalysis, assay development, validation, and sample analysis at our GLP, GCP , and CLIA compliant laboratories. Smithers PDS is seeking a Scientist to ...

MSD

Associate Scientist, Bioanalytical Lab

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$78K - $116K/yr

... reagent/assay development in an industrial setting is preferred; academic setting considered ... Strong scientific fundamentals and analytical background * Logical problem solving and demonstrated ...

MSD

Associate Scientist, Bioanalytical Lab

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$78K - $116K/yr

... reagent/assay development in an industrial setting is preferred; academic setting considered ... Strong scientific fundamentals and analytical background * Logical problem solving and demonstrated ...

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All JobsAssay Development Scientist JobsAssay Development Scientist Jobs in Washington

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How much do assay development scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development scientist in Washington is $43.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.12 and $52.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assay development scientist?

An Assay Development Scientist designs, optimizes, and validates biochemical and cell-based assays for drug discovery, diagnostics, or research applications. They work with a variety of techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and high-throughput screening to measure biological or chemical responses. Their role involves troubleshooting, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure assay accuracy and reproducibility.

What does an assay development scientist do?

A typical day for an Assay Development Scientist involves designing experiments, running and optimizing biochemical or cell-based assays, analyzing data, and documenting results. You will often collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including research scientists, project managers, and quality assurance specialists, to ensure assays meet project requirements. Regular meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot technical challenges, and plan next steps are common. The role also involves staying up-to-date with new technologies and industry standards to continuously improve assay performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assay development scientist?

To thrive as an Assay Development Scientist, you need a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, along with experience in assay design, optimization, and validation. Proficiency with laboratory instrumentation such as plate readers, liquid handlers, and data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism or SoftMax Pro), as well as familiarity with regulatory guidelines, is often required. Effective problem-solving, meticulous attention to detail, and strong communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These abilities ensure the successful development of reliable assays, facilitate collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and support impactful scientific advancements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington?

For Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Assay Development Scientist jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Assay Development Scientist jobs?

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Assay Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Development Scientist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,083 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Scientist 2 - Analytical Development

Merck Group

Rockville, MD • On-site

$88K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Work Your Magic with us! Start your next chapter and join MilliporeSigma.
Ready to explore, break barriers, and discover more? We know you've got big plans - so do we! Our colleagues across the globe love innovating with science and technology to enrich people's lives with our solutions in Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics. Together, we dream big and are passionate about caring for our rich mix of people, customers, patients, and planet. That's why we are always looking for curious minds that see themselves imagining the unimaginable with us.
This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization. External applicants must be eligible to work in the US.
Your Role:
As a Scientist 2 - Analytical Development at MilliporeSigma you will lead the development and validation of new analytical methods that expand the current service portfolio and address identified market and client needs. Serving as the primary subject matter expert (SME) in analytical method development/validation, you will ensure new methods are robust, standardized, and ready for implementation to strengthen portfolio capabilities and address market-driven client needs.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead development and implementation of new analytical methods that expand laboratory capabilities and address gaps in current service offerings.
  • Design, optimize, and troubleshoot analytical assays to ensure they are fit-for-purpose and aligned with phase-appropriate regulatory expectations.
  • Perform hands-on execution and technical leadership across a broad range of modalities, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), cell and gene therapy products, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), mRNA therapeutics, and viral vectors.
  • Keep current on relevant scientific literature, new technologies/capabilities, and support their implementation, as appropriate.
  • Identify areas for improvement in current assays and propose and implement solutions.
  • Act as SME in analytical methods and provide guidance to analysts and study managers.
  • Apply laboratory techniques and skills to complete experiments designed to address a variety of specific problems.
  • Prepare/ review protocols, reports, SOPs, laboratory records, tech specifications, and other related documents.
  • Execute analytical methods in the lab for assay development/validation.
  • Perform testing in accordance with SOPs and regulations (cGMP).
  • Transfer GMP assays to the routine team and provide training to analysts, study managers, report writers, and QA.
  • Operate and maintain lab equipment as required by SOPs and testing procedures.
  • Utilize applicable computer programs during testing and routine tasks (i.e. Word, Excel, Oracle, LIMS, BRIQS, etc.).
  • Lead general change control and resolve deviations by completing event records.
  • Contribute ideas and suggestions to improve standard laboratory techniques, protocols, processes, and equipment.
  • Maintain strong communication skills to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Who You Are
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in a scientific discipline (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, etc.), with 3+ years of professional lab experience .
    OR
  • Master's Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, etc.), with 5+ years of professional lab experience.
    OR
  • Bachelor's Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biology, etc.), with 7+ years of professional lab experience.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with:
    • Liquid Chromatography (HPLC; e.g., SEC, RP, IEX, and residual testing).
    • Mass Spectrometry (Intact Molecular Weight, Peptide Mapping, Disulfide Mapping, Glycan Profiling, N-/C-Terminal Sequencing).
    • Capillary Electrophoresis Methods (CE-SDS, cIEF).
    • Compendial assays and alternative methods (e.g., container closure integrity-related methods).
    • Particle sizing and characterization methods (e.g., DLS).
    • Mass photometry.
  • Experience developing or implementing standardized analytical methods that expand laboratory service capabilities.
  • Experience in method development in a pharmaceutical laboratory.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills demonstrated through presentations/seminars, oversight of projects, implementation of new services, etc.
  • Excellent time management skills.
  • Ability to succeed through collaboration and independently.
  • High level of initiative and leadership capabilities.
  • Effective coaching and training skills for complex and highly technical work.

Pay Range for this position: $88,300 - $132,500/year
The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.
What we offer: We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace. Join us in building a culture of inclusion and belonging that impacts millions and empowers everyone to work their magic and champion human progress!
Apply now and become a part of a team that is dedicated to Sparking Discovery and Elevating Humanity!

Apply