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Genetic Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Emphasizes developing scientific thinking skills and connects biology to current topics including genetic engineering, environmental conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences.

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

... genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and ...

Cyber Engineering Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

... genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and ...

Engineering Manager

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$125 - $160/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engineering Manager $125000 - $160000 per year | Lynchburg, VA | On-site | Permanent Amazing ... status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local ...

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Genetic Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$145.6K

$172.5K

How much do genetic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for genetic engineering in Virginia is $145,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering is a branch of biotechnology that involves directly manipulating an organism's DNA to alter its characteristics or introduce new traits. Scientists use various techniques, such as CRISPR or recombinant DNA technology, to add, remove, or modify specific genes within an organism. This technology is widely used in agriculture to create genetically modified crops, in medicine for gene therapy, and in research for understanding gene functions. Genetic engineering has the potential to address challenges in food production, disease treatment, and industrial biotechnology, but it also raises ethical and safety concerns.

What are the qualifications to get a genetic engineering job?

The qualifications needed for a genetic engineering job include at least a bachelor’s degree in genetics, biochemistry, or a related field. Many employers prefer several years of experience and a Ph.D., particularly for positions in research and development. Many individuals start their careers as members of a team working on a long-running experiment. To find a job at a university, you may need to publish your research in the scientific literature first to demonstrate your expertise. Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills are imperative. You also need patience and perseverance. Computer proficiency and a strong background in biostatics are essential for fulfilling your publishing responsibilities. Your duties also involve staying current by attending and presenting at conferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a genetic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Genetic Engineer, you need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology, often supported by a degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as CRISPR, PCR, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing research, ensuring experiment accuracy, and developing innovative solutions in genetic science.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in genetic engineering roles?

Professionals in genetic engineering often face challenges such as staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, adhering to strict regulatory and safety protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected experimental results. Collaboration is key, as genetic engineers frequently work with multidisciplinary teams including biologists, chemists, and bioinformaticians to achieve successful project outcomes. Additionally, balancing lab work with documentation and compliance requirements is essential for advancing both research and product development.

What is the difference between Genetic Engineering vs Molecular Biologist?

AspectGenetic EngineeringMolecular Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Genetics, Biotechnology, or related fieldsUsually a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, biotech companies, research institutionsResearch labs, academic institutions, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, agricultural companiesUniversities, research institutes, healthcare organizations

Genetic engineers focus on modifying DNA to develop new products or improve existing ones, often working on practical applications. Molecular biologists study the molecular mechanisms of biological processes, conducting fundamental research. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, genetic engineering is more application-driven, whereas molecular biology emphasizes understanding biological systems.

Do genetic engineers make a lot of money?

Genetic engineers typically earn a competitive salary, with median annual wages in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries often exceeding the national average for science and engineering roles. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, location, and the complexity of projects, with advanced degrees and specialized skills increasing earning potential.

Is genetic engineering a good career?

Genetic engineering is a growing field that offers opportunities in research, biotechnology, and healthcare, often requiring strong backgrounds in biology, chemistry, and laboratory skills. Careers in this area can be rewarding but typically demand advanced degrees and continuous learning due to rapid technological advancements.

What are popular job titles related to Genetic Engineering jobs in Virginia?

For Genetic Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Genetic Engineering jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Genetic Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Genetic Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,608 per year, or $70 per hour.

Research Associate, The Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 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 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research (CIC) was established to expand basic, translational, and clinical research in Immunology. It is a vibrant, collaborative community of Immunologist studying immune mechanisms in a variety of contexts.
Position Summary
The Beirne B. Carter Immunology Center (CIC) at the University of Virginia's (UVA) School of Medicine is currently seeking a Research Associate (Postdoctoral scholar) to join the Anderson Lab. Projects will utilize novel pre-clinical models of cancer, genetic engineering, adoptive transfer studies, gene expression analysis, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and biospecimens (tissue samples and PBMCs) from human subjects with and without ovarian cancer. This position represents an opportunity to advance knowledge, learn practical lab-based skills, gain research experience, and participate in exciting science for a highly motivated individual.
Research in the Anderson Lab has two broad areas of interest:
1. Engineering novel T cell-based immunotherapies to overcome immune suppression in solid tumors, and
2. Developing novel pre-clinical models for ovarian cancer research .
This position will be involved in both areas of research .
For more information on the lab and Carter Immunology Center, please visit https://www.immunology.virginia.edu/Anderson/index.php and https://www.immunology.virginia.edu/
The Research Associate will participate in a multiplicity of relevant lab projects as well as in writing study reports for the study sponsors, papers, and grant applications. The Research Associate is expected to develop research programs as time permits . The incumbent will also be expected to attend and participate in laboratory meetings, CIC and Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology (MIC)-related seminars, Cancer Center seminars, as well as work with graduate students, technicians, fellows and collaborators in the laboratories involved in the project. Candidates will also be provided with opportunities to develop personnel and project management skills and have the option to develop a mentoring committee. Eligibility for National Institutes of Health (NIH) post-doctoral fellowship funding is helpful, but not mandatory.
Responsibilities
  • Full-time research or scholarship at the University.
  • Preparatory for a full-time academic or research career.
  • Supervised by a senior scholar; and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship.
  • In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

The candidate should be highly motivated to develop new research avenues; and should have excellent written and oral communication skills. Intensive experience in small animal procedures, flow cytometry, molecular biology and immune cell purification and culture, etc. Experience in molecular biology, microscopy, cellular immunology, T cell biology, lung biology, murine models of disease, and human samples is preferred.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: Terminal degree at the time of hire in Immunology, Virology, Lung Biology or a related field.

Preferred Experience:
  • Demonstrated experience in immunology, genetic engineering, molecular biology, cancer biology, or a related field.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with experience in T cell biology, lymphocyte analysis, genetic engineering, animal husbandry and handling, and/or human translational immunology experience.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD or equivalent degree in a relative scientific field of study by appointment start date.

Required knowledge, skills and abilities:
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Proven grant writing skills are also important (e.g., pre-doctoral awards and/or submitted grants).
  • Highly motivated to develop new research avenues.
  • Detail-oriented
  • Highly collaborative

Physical Demands
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
Salary Range
  • Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Position Type & Work Location
  • This is an exempt-leve l, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
  • This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.
  • This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Application Timeline
Application review will begin after July 1 7 , 2026
Additional Requirements
  • Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
  • This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

How to Apply
Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0086083 .
Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Complete an application with the following documents:
  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field . You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF . Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Reference Check Process
Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required .
Contact
  • For q uestions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman, jf2sw@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

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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