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Entry Level Molecular Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Associate with bachelor's degree, Chemistry Background and Protein Experience (Onsite ... engineering, production, assessment, and final selection of large molecule drug candidates that ...

New

Scientific Data Curator

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$60K - $60K/yr

... entry-level scientist to support curation and standardization of experimental assay data stored ... Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, Protein Engineering, or a closely related ...

Scientific Data Curator

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$67K - $67K/yr

... entry-level scientist to support curation and standardization of experimental assay data stored ... Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, Bioengineering, Protein Engineering, or a closely related ...

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Entry Level Molecular Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$86.4K

$142.5K

How much do entry level molecular engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level molecular engineer in the United States is $86,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Molecular Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Molecular Engineer, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and molecular engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, molecular modeling software, and analytical tools such as PCR or spectroscopy is usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, efficient project collaboration, and the ability to contribute to innovative research and product development.

What does an Entry Level Molecular Engineer do?

An Entry Level Molecular Engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and developing molecules for applications in fields like pharmaceuticals, materials science, and biotechnology. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers or scientists to conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to research projects. Typical tasks may include using computer modeling, synthesizing compounds in the lab, and documenting results. This role is ideal for recent graduates with a background in chemistry, biology, or chemical engineering who are looking to gain hands-on experience in molecular engineering.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level molecular engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level molecular engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex laboratory protocols, mastering new analytical instruments, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical experiments. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams—including chemists, biologists, and senior engineers—can require strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, managing multiple projects simultaneously and troubleshooting unexpected experimental results are common aspects of the learning curve, but these experiences help build valuable problem-solving skills and technical confidence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Molecular Engineer vs Entry Level Chemical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Molecular EngineerEntry Level Chemical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Molecular Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Chemical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companiesManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, research labs
Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, nanotechnologyPetrochemical, manufacturing, process industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Molecular Engineers and Entry Level Chemical Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, especially in research and development settings. However, Molecular Engineers focus more on molecular-level processes and nanotechnology, while Chemical Engineers typically work on large-scale chemical processes and manufacturing. Both roles are essential in their respective industries and are frequently compared by job seekers exploring entry-level opportunities in chemical sciences.

More about Entry Level Molecular Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Molecular Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Molecular Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Molecular Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Molecular Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Molecular Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Research Associate II , Molecular Engineering

NKW NantKwest Inc

Culver City, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
ImmunityBio, Inc. (NASDAQ: IBRX) is a commercial-stage biotechnology company developing cell and immunotherapy products that are designed to help strengthen each patient's natural immune system, potentially enabling it to outsmart the disease and eliminate cancerous or infected cells. We envision a day when we no longer fear cancer, but can conquer it, thanks to the biological wonder that is the human immune system. Our scientists are working to develop novel therapies that harness that inherent power by amplifying both branches of the immune system, attacking cancerous or infected cells today while building immunological memory for tomorrow. The goal: to reprogram the patient's immune system and treat the host rather than just the disease.
Why ImmunityBio?
ImmunityBio is developing cutting-edge technology with the goal to transform the lives of patients with cancer and develop next-generation therapies and vaccines that complement, harness and amplify the immune system to defeat cancers and infectious diseases.
Opportunity to join a publicly traded biopharmaceutical company with headquarters in Southern California.
Work with a collaborative team with the ability to work across different areas of the company.
Ability to join a growing company with professional development opportunities.

Position Summary

The Research Associate II will assist with the discovery, research and development of immunotherapies across multiple therapeutic areas. The role supports planning and conducting everyday experiments to generate plasmid DNA molecules and mRNA for the R&D group. The Research Associate II will contribute directly in the design, execution and troubleshooting for efficient production of recombinant DNA and RNA and has an important impact in providing necessary molecules in support of Antibody Discovery, Vaccine Development, NK/T-Cell Therapeuties and CAR Development.

Essential Functions

  • Assists with DNA cloning including PCR, restriction enzyme digests, plasmid assembly, bacterial transformations, and plasmid purifications
  • Maintains records of all constructs produced (sequences, raw reads, QC results, stock inventory)
  • Assists with In vitro transcription and RNA purifications
  • Contributes to in vitro selection experiments
  • Helps with Protein expression using mammalian cell culture and bacterial expression
  • Assists with Protein purification using affinity chromatography
  • Participates in training of basic molecular biology techniques to junior personnel
  • Supports all lab duties
  • Adheres to and makes recommendations to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process improvements
  • Performs ad-hoc and cross-functional duties and/or projects assigned to support business needs and provide developmental opportunities.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline with 2+ years of industry experience required; Or Master's degree in a scientific discipline with some industry experience required
  • Experience in Molecular Biology techniques: oligo design, PCR, mutagenesis, diverse cloning experience, data analysis, in vitro transcription and RNA production required
  • Experience in protein expression in mammalian and bacterial systems required
  • Experience with in vitro selection techniques preferred

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Ability to demonstrate a motivation to learn and be a self-starter
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with flexibility while juggling multiple priorities
  • Ability to plan and perform various experiments with accuracy, precision, and minimal guidance from supervisor
  • Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems independently as well as analyze data and reach a simple conclusion
  • Ability to prepare data presentations for group meetings independently
  • Ability to keep an organized lab notebook with emphasis on formal description of experiments intended for IND enabling studies
  • Ability to use electronic and lab inventories independently
  • Ability to ship and receive diverse reagents to/from CROs or collaborators
  • Ability to keep organized records of important reagents intended for general lab use
  • Proficient in MS Office software (Word, Excel, powerpoint)
  • Work well in collaborative environment

Working Environment / Physical Environment

  • Working environment is within an approximately 2,000 square foot lab space equipped with biosafety cabinets for mammalian cell culture and equipment sufficient to complete the tasks described above.
  • This position works on-site
  • Minimal travel may be required
  • Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer.
  • Lift and carry materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

This position is eligible for a discretionary bonus and equity award. The annual base pay range for this position is below. The specific rate will depend on the successful candidate's qualifications, prior experience as well as geographic location.

$81,000 (entry-level qualifications) to $89,100 (highly experienced) annually

The application window is anticipated to close on 60 days from when it is posted or sooner if the position is filled or closed.

ImmunityBio employees are as valuable as the people we serve. We have built a resource of robust benefit offerings to best support the total wellbeing of our team members and their families. Our competitive total rewards benefits package, for eligible employees, include: Medical, Dental and Vision Plan Options Health and Financial Wellness Programs Employer Assistance Program (EAP) Company Paid and Voluntary Life/AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match 529 Education Savings Program Voluntary Legal Services, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance and Employee Discounts, Rewards and Perks Paid Time Off (PTO) includes: 11 Holidays Exempt Employees are eligible for Unlimited PTO Non-Exempt Employees are eligible for 10 Vacation Days, 56 Hours of Health Pay, 2 Personal Days and 1 Cultural Day We are committed to providing you with the tools and resources you need to optimize your Health and Wellness.

At ImmunityBio, we are an equal opportunity employer dedicated to diversity in the workplace. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or expression, or other status protected by law.