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Entry Level Molecular Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Scientist - IHSD-R&D-GB

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$55K - $66K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

MRIGlobal solves challenging problems through science, engineering, and program management. We are ... S. or B.A. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related discipline

... molecules traditionally sourced from plants, animals, or fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to ... Working under the direction of senior engineers and project leads, this role contributes to ...

Associate Scientist I

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

... seeking entry level scientists to support cell culture processes on an exciting contract ... The candidate should have experience with standard cell culture, biochemistry, and molecular ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 12, 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 jobs can you get with entry level molecular engineer?

An entry-level molecular engineer can work in research and development, quality control, or manufacturing in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or materials science. Common roles include laboratory technician, process engineer, or research associate, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, chemical analysis, and relevant software tools.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Lab Technician or Specialist, Dolatshahi Lab - Biomedical Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Dolatshahi laboratory in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia is seeking a Laboratory Technician or Specialist to perform cellular and molecular biology experiments, coordinate clinical research, provide technical lab support, and manage collaborations. Our systems immunology lab investigates fundamental mechanisms of immune regulation and dysregulation, with an ultimate objective of identifying strategies to design and improve immunotherapies and vaccines. Motivated entry-level or experienced researchers are invited to apply. The successful candidate will participate as part of a collaborative research team which combines experimental and computational methods to study neonatal-maternal immunity and cancer . For a description of the lab's overall research interests, visit https://engineering.virginia.edu/faculty/sepideh-dolatshahi and https://dolatshahilab.com/ .
Responsibilities include:
  • Perform laboratory experiments such as performing cell culture, collecting and processing patient samples, primary cell isolation, biochemical and molecular biology experiments.
  • Evaluate experiment results using statistical analyses. Maintain digital reports of the results.
  • Provide routine, technical, logistical and administrative support to research projects; Order supplies and equipment for the lab, maintain an organized system of operation, prepare culture media and reagents, facilitate collaborations with other labs
  • Help develop protocols and IRB submissions.
  • Participate in weekly group meetings and assist in evaluating research methods and procedures based on established objectives. Assist Principal Investigator and lab members in developing new strategies and techniques for experimentation.
  • Consent patients, collect, screen, and verify data relating to human subject's research.
  • Perform library and literature research.
  • Assist with data management, visualization and analysis
  • May help author material for publications. May participate in presentations with Principal Investigators (PIs) at meetings or conferences.
  • In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties related to the smooth day-to-day lab function may be assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Associate's degree and 2 years of experience, or, Bachelor's degree in biomedical or chemical engineering, biology, immunology, biotechnology or a related field plus 1 year of experience strongly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills and the ability to follow instructions.
  • Excellent communication skills, including with diverse audiences for recruitment and participant management efforts.
  • The ability to understand research processes and knowledge of general research procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
  • Demonstrate expertise in troubleshooting problems and recommending solutions.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $19.23 - $26.44/hour ($40-55k annually), commensurate with education and experience.
This is a restricted position, continuation will be subject to the continued availability of funding and satisfactory performance.
This position is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is a full-time benefited position. For more information on the benefits at UVA, visit www.hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. A completed pre-employment health screen is required for this position prior to employment.
Physical Demands: This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other benchwork and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation.
Application Process:
Please apply online , and search for R0084885. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website . Complete an application online with the following documents:
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all the required documents will not receive full consideration. This position is open until filled.
References will be completed via UVA's standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three are required.
For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, js9rk@virginia.edu.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819