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Assay Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TechData Service Company LLC

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Assay Development Scientist (349)

Alameda, CA · On-site

$36 - $46/hr

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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How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in California is $38.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.98 and $45.53 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.

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

The most popular types of Assay Development jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Assay Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assay Development job openings:

Assay Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,367 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Assay Development Scientist (349)

TechData Service Company LLC

Alameda, CA • On-site

$36 - $46/hr

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Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Associate Research Scientist

Job ID: 349

Location: Alameda, CA 94502 (In-person)

Pay Rate: $36.00 – $46.00 / hour (W2)

Duration: 12 Months (Extension & potential conversion possible after 1 year)

Shift: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM PST (With some flexibility)

Interview Process: 1 Round (2-hour onsite panel across ~2 interviews)


Job Summary

The Associate Research Scientist will conceptualize, develop, optimize, and execute biophysical and biochemical assays to support hit identification, validation, and mechanism of action (MoA) studies for early-stage small molecule drug discovery projects. This role involves developing automated High-Throughput Screening (HTS) biochemical assays (1536-well plate) and biophysical assays (96/384-well plate formats) to advance research programs toward development candidate nomination.

Top Required Skills

  1. HTS Assay Development & Screening: High-throughput screening in 1536- and 384-well plate formats.
  2. Biophysical Assays: Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) preferred.
  3. Assay Technologies: HTRF, AlphaLISA, MSD, ELISA, Fluorescence Polarization (FP), and Luminescence-based assays.
  4. Lab Automation: Experience with automated screening workflows and liquid handling/dispensing equipment.
  5. Bonus: Cellular assay experience, small molecule heterobifunctional degraders, or molecular glues.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assay Development & Execution: Independently design, optimize, and run biophysical and biochemical assays for small molecule compound profiling and HTS campaigns.
  • Workflow Optimization: Evaluate and implement new technologies, protocols, and automated tools to support projects from hit finding through lead optimization and MoA studies.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal teams, present data/project updates to department leadership, and contribute to discovery project meetings.
  • Compliance & Documentation: Maintain accurate electronic lab notebooks according to company IP policies and adhere to all laboratory health and safety standards.

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Professional Experience

  • Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline + 5+ years of experience, OR
  • Associate’s Degree in a related discipline + 7+ years of experience, OR
  • High School Diploma / GED + 9+ years of experience.

Technical & Soft Skills

  • Small Molecule Drug Discovery: Hands-on experience developing biophysical and biochemical assays for small molecule targets.
  • SPR Expertise: Strong working knowledge of SPR techniques to discover and characterize small molecule-protein target complexes.
  • Automation Familiarity: Experience using liquid handlers, dispensers, plate readers, and automated workflows.
  • Communication & Management: Strong problem-solving, multi-tasking, and written/verbal communication skills; ability to align daily experimental work with broader discovery goals.

Additional Information

  • Supervisory Role: None
  • Work Environment: Primary duties conducted in a laboratory setting
  • Benefits: Health insurance, Dental insurance

Company Description

https://quantive.bio/