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Assay Development Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Natera

Senior Research Associate

Austin, TX

We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality ...

Natera

Senior Research Associate

Austin, TX · On-site

$69K - $87K/yr

We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality ...

Nuclein, LLC.

Quality Control Scientist II

Austin, TX · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

In collaboration with Assay Development, Operations, and Engineering colleagues, the QC Scientist II will ensure that Nuclein products meet the highest standards of quality and are compliant with all ...

Nuclein, LLC.

Manufacturing Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

Position interfaces directly with Quality Assurance, Production Personnel, Supply Chain, Engineering and Assay Development to ensure the on-time delivery of high-quality devices in line with company ...

Nuclein,-LL

Manufacturing Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Position interfaces directly with Quality Assurance, Production Personnel, Supply Chain, Engineering and Assay Development to ensure the on-time delivery of high-quality devices in line with company ...

Nuclein, LLC.

Staff Quality Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

In collaboration with Operations, Engineering, and Assay Development colleagues and Nuclein's suppliers, the Staff Quality Engineer ensures that our products meet the highest standards of quality and ...

Natera

Senior Lab Automation Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

They can work independently to conceptualize, design, develop and implment automated solutions for robust, reliable performance of NGS assays. This development includes standalone instruments and ...

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How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in Austin, TX is $38.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $45.77 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 Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Assay Development jobs in Austin, TX are:

Assay Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,713 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Senior Research Associate

Austin, TX

Natera
Biotechnology Research and Development • 1 - 5K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 120 rated laboratories

People enjoy working here

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Learn more about Nateraexternal

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Product Development Sr. Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution and participation in experiments/tasks to support oncology product development and verification and validation (V&V) studies under design control, for next generation sequencing (NGS) assays. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated candidate with direct laboratory experience in assay development who can work effectively in a fast-paced environment to ensure the highest quality clinical assays are developed and launched for our patients. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic and driven professional who is eager to learn, flexible, enjoys multi-tasking and possesses strong wet lab skills. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • With some supervision, design and execute low to moderate complexity experimental workflows, including cfDNA extraction, library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) using both manual and automated platforms, employing various molecular biology and standard laboratory methods in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
  • Assist with the design, plan and execution of experiments to support the development and V&V of oncology assays
  • Maintain a detailed and organized electronic laboratory notebooks and accurate records of lab work using a variety of software including Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal databases
  • Analyze and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools
  • Assist in drafting documentation including study protocols, reports, SOPs and work instructions
  • Coordinate across multiple internal teams to ensure the timely execution of the studies.
  • Adapt to handle multiple tasks and priorities, and perform other duties as assigned
  • Learn the science behind ongoing research projects while actively completing increasingly complex tasks

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or related field with a minimum of 4 years of laboratory and/or relevant industry experience or MS with 0-2 years of relevant experience. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Must have hands-on experience with DNA extraction from biological samples, e.g. blood, plasma, tissue and BLS1, BLS2 experience
  • Must have hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques (purification, quantification, amplification using PCR, qPCR, Quant-IT/Qubit, BioAnalyzer or TapeStation)
  • Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation and Illumina sequencing platforms is highly preferred
  • Experience in a regulatory environment under IVD, CLIA/CAP is highly desired
  • Experience in implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-throughput automated assays using liquid handling techniques
  • Knowledge of statistical methods and techniques to contribute to analytical studies is desired
  • Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced lab under minimal supervision, managing multiple tasks and priorities with minimal errors is highly desired
  • Effective communication skills, including gathering information from different teams, communicating with suppliers, writing protocols, and summarizing results in reports or presentations 
  • Excellent with Microsoft Office programs and Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms   
  • Ability to think creatively and analytically with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Team player with strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective working relationships within functional areas

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