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Assay Development Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Vrtx

DMPK and Bioanalytical Associate Director

Seattle, WA · On-site

$166K - $249K/yr

Contributes to bioanalytical method development and phaseappropriate qualification and validation of assays (including ligand binding and cell-based PK, immunogenicity and biomarker assays), and ...

Arzeda

Scientist, Protein Testing

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Using your knowledge of enzymology, analytical biochemistry, and assay development and troubleshooting, you'll generate the decision-quality data that keeps our programs moving. This role is roughly ...

Uw

Research Scientist/Engr 1

Seattle, WA · On-site

$58K/yr

In vitro functional assay development and execution - 25% Develop and run cell-free transcription and polymerase assays, including time-course transcription assays, one- or few-base incorporation ...

SystImmune, Inc

Scientist, Immuno-Oncology

Redmond, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist with a strong experimental background in cellular and molecular biology, immunology, and assay development. The successful candidate will support discovery ...

Systimmune

Scientist, Immuno-Oncology

Redmond, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist with a strong experimental background in cellular and molecular biology, immunology, and assay development. The successful candidate will support discovery ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssay Development JobsAssay Development Jobs in Seattle, WA

Assay Development information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$23

$44

$70

How much do assay development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for assay development in Seattle, WA is $44.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.31 and $52.55 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Assay Development jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Assay Development jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Assay Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assay Development job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,571 per year, or $44 per hour.

Scientist/Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering

SystImmune, Inc

Redmond, WA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

SystImmune is a leading and well-funded clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Redmond, WA and Princeton, NJ. It specializes in developing innovative cancer treatments using its established drug development platforms, focusing on bi-specific, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). SystImmune has multiple assets in various stages of clinical trials for solid tumor and hematologic indications. Alongside ongoing clinical trials. SystImmune has a robust preclinical pipeline of potential cancer therapeutics in the discover and IND-enabling stages, representing cutting-edge biologics development. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.
We are seeking an innovative Scientist or Senior Scientist with industry experience in protein biochemistry, cell biology, and biologics drug development. In this laboratory-based role, you will be responsible for designing novel reagents, cell lines, and assays in support of functional screening of biologics leads. Furthermore, you will be executing display-based campaigns while interfacing with other members of the research team to achieve protein design goals. The position reports to the Director of Protein Engineering. The ideal candidate will have broad experience in one or more of the following fields: protein biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, and assay development.
This position is full-time onsite in Redmond, WA and will transition to our new Bothell, WA facility in fall 2026.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and generate novel cell-based and biochemical assays as well as associated cell lines for use in functional screening of lead biologics (e.g. reporter assays for specific target signaling).
  • Develop and implement high throughput cell-free expression of antigens and Ab-based binder molecules for fast screening of lead molecules
  • Design and execute on display-based protein engineering campaigns of binder and effector molecules including affinity modulation, stability optimization, and development of novel properties (e.g. pH, epitope masking, etc.).
  • Optimize methods to efficiently execute functional screening and protein engineering campaigns (e.g. library generation and sample preparation, NGS sequencing, flow cytometry-based lead selection, etc.).
  • Design novel platforms for faster evaluation and screening of immune-based repertoires from immunized animal sources or display methods for use in both discovery and protein engineering campaigns.
  • Utilize data analysis tools to evaluate large datasets to inform iterative protein design.
  • Stay updated on advancements in instrumentation, software, and methodologies, currently utilized in high throughput screening and display-based protein engineering.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues and implement solutions to optimize lead molecules, ensuring data quality and integrity throughout the discovery and optimization process. Utilize LIMS system and maintain accurate and timely records and meet internal reporting standards.
  • Write and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), perform general laboratory duties, prepare experiment designs and execute data analyses.

Required Qualifications:
  • PhD in bioengineering, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, cell biology, or a related field. 3+ year industrial drug development experience preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience using generating novel cell lines and/or assay development
  • Experience in utilizing display technologies (yeast/phage) to discover and engineer novel binders and lead molecules of different classes (e.g. Ab, Fab, scFv, VHHs, etc.)
  • Extensive experience in FACS-based selection and sorting
  • Demonstrated proficiency in one or more of the following workstreams: library design and generation, display-based selection, protein engineering, and assay development
  • Experience with data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, FlowJo,) and statistical analysis of experimental results.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot technical issues and implement effective solutions
  • Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
  • On-site work is mandatory.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
This individual will work in cell culture laboratory alongside other scientists and in a standard business office with desktop business equipment and a moderate noise level.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time. This individual must be able to operate standard laboratory and business equipment.
Compensation and Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $130,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to a candidate's level qualifications, experience, and skills.
While most offers typically fall within the low to mid-point of the range, we may extend an offer toward the higher end for exceptional candidates whose background and expertise exceeds the requirements of the role.
SystImmune is a leading and well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and MORE.
We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company's success.
SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome diverse talent and encourage all qualified applicants to apply.

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