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Associate Scientist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Associate Scientist I

Madison, WI · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Associate degree in a laboratory science (chemical or biological science) or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent laboratory training and experience as defined ...

WI · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

The DNA Associate Scientist is responsible for helping in all activities, as directed, for the GTS/MBGT work streams, with primary focus in DNA extraction, testing, and data analysis.

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Associate Scientist information

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$18

$36

$57

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Wisconsin is $36.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $41.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is an associate scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.

What are some common challenges an associate scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Wisconsin are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in WI?

For Associate Scientist jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,422 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Associate Scientist II, Quality Control

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq ARWR) is a commercial stage biopharmaceutical company that develops medicines that treat intractable diseases by silencing the genes that cause them. Using a broad portfolio of RNA chemistries and efficient modes of delivery, Arrowhead therapies trigger the RNA interference mechanism to induce rapid, deep, and durable knockdown of target genes. RNA interference, or RNAi, is a mechanism present in living cells that inhibits the expression of a specific gene, thereby affecting the production of a specific protein. Arrowhead's RNAi-based therapeutics leverage this natural pathway of gene silencing.

Arrowhead is focused on developing innovative drugs for diseases with a genetic basis, typically characterized by the overproduction of one or more proteins that are involved with disease. The depth and versatility of our RNAi technologies enables us to potentially address conditions in virtually any therapeutic area and pursue disease targets that are not otherwise addressable by small molecules and biologics. Arrowhead is leading the field in bringing the promise of RNAi to address diseases outside of the liver, and our clinical pipeline includes disease targets in the liver and lung with a promising pipeline of preclinical candidates.

Arrowhead's corporate headquarters is in Pasadena, CA with research and development teams in Madison, WI & San Diego, CA, and a state of the art manufacturing facility in Verona, WI.  Our employees are nimble, science-driven innovators who are collaborating to bring new therapies to patients in need. 

The Position

This position is within the Quality Control structure, under the Quality Organization.  An Associate Scientist II, Quality Control will support the analytical testing of pharmaceutical raw materials, in-process samples, finished drug substances and drug product, and/or stability sample testing activities for new drug substances and drug products.  The Associate Scientist II will also support Environmental Monitoring sample collection, support testing required for GLP Toxicology and cGMP Clinical Trial material release, as well as stability studies.  The Associate Scientist II is expected to perform several analytical techniques and can make sound scientific decisions with guidance from management.  This position reports to the QC-EM Scientist.

Responsibilities

  • Developing understanding and knowledge of cGMP requirements.
  • With guidance from laboratory leadership, works to meet project timelines and deliverables
  • Performs routine Environmental Monitoring sample collection within a cGMP Manufacturing space.
  • Performs routine analytical testing of pharmaceutical raw materials, in-process samples, finished products and/or stability samples using established test methods and procedures
  • Executes training requirements, applies relevant SOPs and associated procedural guides
  • Ensures that training records are up to date and in compliance
  • Familiar with various analytical instrumentation theory and practice
  • Trains on, and becomes proficient with, a variety of analytical instrumentation (e.g., HPLC, GC, FT-IR, UV/Vis, KF, etc.)
  • Can set up various instrumentation for testing according to written test methods with little to no supervision
  • Plans and executes work related tasks with minimal supervision
  • Performs analyses in a timely manner
  • Works collaboratively with others
  • Shows initiative and interest in learning new techniques and tests
  • Identifies and troubleshoots minor analytical problems with instrumentation, general chemistry and computer applications
  • Quickly communicates analytical or sample issues to senior staff and/or management
  • Maintains a clear, concise and accurate laboratory notebook or worksheet records.
  • Reviews test data acquired by others, as applicable.
  • Aids with the drafting of technical documents such as OOS/atypical investigations, deviations and CAPAs
  • Possesses good written and verbal communication skills
  • Consistently and correctly analyze data/results and interpret outcome of experiments and to propose appropriate follow-up with supervision.
  • Embraces cGMP requirements for all associated work
  • Works cooperatively in a team environment
  • Developing attention to detail
  • Calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of analytical equipment with supervision.
  • Remains flexible with changing priorities
  • Additional duties as assigned

Requirements

  • Masters in Chemistry (or related field) with 1+ years' relevant laboratory experience in pharmaceutical/regulated environment or Bachelors in Chemistry (or related field) with 3+ years in a GMP QC or analytical laboratory environment.
  • Experience with cGMP laboratory requirements and operations
  • Familiar with analytical instrumentation, test methodology/validations, data acquisition systems, and cGMP policies and practices.

Preferred

  • Previous Environmental Monitoring and/or cleanroom experience.
  • Previous Microbiology experience.
  • Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze and interpret SOPs, test methods, procedural guides and associated technical documents. Ability to write in a clear and concise manner.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management, peers and colleagues.
  • Mathematical Skills: Must be able to perform complex math functions, compute ratios, rate, and percent. Must be able to draw and interpret graphs and charts.
  • Reasoning Skills: Must be able to solve practical problems. Must be able to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
  • Other Skills and Abilities: Must be able to work with people at various levels of the organization. Must have basic knowledge of computers and PC's. Ability to use windows-based software including MS Office and chromatography data collection software.
Wisconsin pay range
$70,000—$85,000 USD

Arrowhead provides competitive salaries and an excellent benefit package.   

Candidates must have current, valid authorization to work in the country where this role is located.

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