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Associate Scientist Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

Key job responsibilities As a highly experienced and seasoned science leader, you will apply state of the art natural language processing and computer vision research to video centric digital media ...

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... Sciences, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, Life Sciences or related discipline. Education Preferred BS degree with minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience, or MS degree with minimum 0+ years of ...

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Associate Data Scientist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$66K - $67K/yr

As an Associate Data Scientist within the Portfolio Risk and Analysis Group, you will provide analytically sound risk models and data-driven insights that inform credit decisions by PACCAR's finance ...

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Associate Scientist information

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How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Federal Way, WA is $40.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.15 and $45.62 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 job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in Federal Way, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Associate Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,446 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Associate Scientist, Cell Therapy Manufacturing Support (Onsite - Seattle, WA)

Stage 4 Solutions Inc

Seattle, WA • On-site

$45 - $47.55/hr

Contractor

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Associate Scientist, Cell Therapy Manufacturing Support (Onsite – Seattle, WA) 

We are seeking an Associate Scientist, Cell Therapy Manufacturing Support for a global pharmaceutical client. The focus of the role is to ensure successful manufacture of life-saving cell therapy products and to support testing and implementation of operational improvements and resolve manufacturing process investigations at the client’s cell therapy GMP manufacturing facilities. You will be part of a team tasked with completing manufacturing support studies, including investigational, process improvement and process characterization studies. This individual will primarily execute experiments, evaluate data, and draft technical reports.  You will also contribute to well controlled comparability and validation studies which enable regulatory filings for raw material and process changes. 

This is a 40-hour per-week, 12-month contract (extensions possible), 100% onsite role in Seattle, WA. 

This is a W2 role as a Stage 4 Solutions employee. Health benefits and 401K are offered. 

Responsibilities:  

  • Execute experiments in the process development labs which includes aseptic processing and operation of automated process equipment.  

  • Summarize experimental data and aid in analysis to draw conclusions.  

  • Coordinate with the analytical group for timely delivery of process samples and turn-around of analytical data.   

  • Support production-related investigations, ensuring compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements.  

  • Develop and execute manufacturing process changes and improvement activities, and/or author technical reports for process changes and improvements.  

  • Support process comparability and process validation studies including planning, execution, and documentation management. Support necessary technical experiments and analysis to enable decisions related to raw materials changes.  

  • Flexibility with work schedule as maintenance of cell cultures on occasional weekends, early mornings, or evenings is required  

Requirements:  

  • BS degree with minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience, or MS degree with minimum 0+ years of relevant experience in biologic process/analytical development or commercial biologic manufacturing process support.  

  • Experience with cell therapy process development or manufacturing  

  • Aseptic manufacturing or process development experience 

  • Data analysis experience - Proficiency utilizing MS Office products and working knowledge of statistical software (R, JMP, Minitab)  

  • Excellent documentation skills and attention to detail with cGMP experience a plus.   

  • Strong scientific and technical writing with excellent oral communication skills. 

  • Experience supporting investigations in support of commercial manufacturing is preferred 

  • Experience with commercial product support, i.e. post-marketing commitments, on-going validation and comparability is preferred 

  • Combination of experience in process development, MSAT and quality is preferred 

  • Operational excellence training/background is preferred    

  • Degree in Biological Sciences, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, Life Sciences or related discipline.  
      

Please submit your resume to our network at https://www.stage4solutions.com/careers/ (please apply to the Associate Scientist, Cell Therapy Manufacturing Support (Onsite – Seattle, WA) role). 

Please feel free to forward this project opening to others who may be interested. 

Stage 4 Solutions is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing employees with an inclusive environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on the job requirements and candidates’ qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion/belief, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. 

Compensation: $45/hr. - $47.55/hr. 

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