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Assay Development Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Merck Group

Senior Scientist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Lead assay development, transfer, validation, and continuous-improvement activities. * Support the introduction and implementation of new services. When appointed as Study Director for an assigned ...

Smithers Group

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD

$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 PDS LLC

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$70 - $85/hr

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 Group

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$70 - $85/hr

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 ...

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (51819)

Bethesda, MD

Work with staff on test assay development, validation and implementation of new equipment and reagents in the sequencing area in order to provide a more efficient high-throughput test; maintain ...

GAP Solutions, Inc

Biologist (51819)

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

Work with staff on test assay development, validation and implementation of new equipment and reagents in the sequencing area in order to provide a more efficient high-throughput test; maintain ...

MSD

Associate Scientist, Bioanalytical Lab

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$78K - $116K/yr

Minimum 4 years of hands-on work experience in biological sample testing or reagent/assay development in an industrial setting is preferred; academic setting considered * Demonstrated proficiency in ...

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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 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 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 popular job titles related to Assay Development jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Assay Development jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Assay Development job openings:

Assay Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Development 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 III, Immunology & Flow Cytometry

IBT Bioservices

Rockville, MD • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

IBT Bioservices is seeking an experienced, independent, and highly technical Scientist III to join our expanding immunology team. The ideal candidate will serve as a key subject matter expert in advanced flow cytometry and assay development within a fast-paced, high-volume Contract Research Organization (CRO) environment.

In this role, you will be responsible for end-to-end execution of complex immunological studies, from tissue processing to high-parameter data analysis. You must be adept at troubleshooting, panel design, and the rigorous validation of assays in compliance with project requirements.

Key Responsibilities
  • Flow Cytometry Expertise:
    • Serve as the lead operator for the BD FACSymphony A2 (or equivalent).
    • Perform routine machine maintenance, calibration, quality control, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance.
    • Design and validate complex 17+ color panels tailored to specific research objectives.
    • Independently perform mouse tissue harvests, including spleen and lung processing.
    • Execute flow cytometry experiments for diverse sample types, including human, non-human primate (NHP), and murine models.
  • Assay Development & Sample Testing:
    • Participate in development, optimization, and qualification of robust viral or immunology-based assays, ensuring full adherence to internal quality standards, GXP-guidelines, and aggressive client timelines.
    • Proactively troubleshoot assay performance issues to guarantee high data integrity and consistency in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
    • Demonstrate exceptional pipetting precision and consistency, with the proven ability to handle high-throughput demands—specifically the capacity to execute 50+ 96-well plates per week while maintaining tight Coefficient of Variation (CV) targets.
    • Apply a deep understanding of XLFit (or similar), standard curve analysis and assay linearity to validate performance and ensure reliable quantitative results.
  • Technical Support & Documentation:
    • Maintain detailed batch records and prepare technical reports summarizing findings.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align on study protocols and data interpretation.
Qualifications & Requirements
  • Education: PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Experience: Minimum of 4–6 years of professional experience in a high-volume environment, CRO preferred.
  • Authorization to work in US and Maryland residency.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Hands-on experience with high-parameter flow cytometry (specifically BD Symphony or similar platforms).
    • Demonstrated capability in advanced panel design and multi-color compensation.
    • Strong background in assay development and qualification methodologies.
    • 3+ years of experience on BD Symphony A2 or similar (13+ color).
  • Preferred Skills:
    • Basic operational knowledge or experience with qPCR and ELISPOT techniques is a plus.
  • Soft Skills:
    • Highly independent professional, with proven proficiency in maintaining meticulous, audit-ready documentation in a fast-paced, high-volume setting.
    • Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with rigorous attention to detail.
    • Strong communication skills, capable of relaying (written and oral) technical data to internal and external stakeholders.
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