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Life Science Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Scientist I

Sterling, VA · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

ABOUT MICROBAC Microbac Laboratories, Inc. is a premier commercial laboratory testing firm that partners with clients nationwide, offering laboratory solutions to life science, food and nutrition ...

Mission Focused: * Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research * We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives * Contribute to community ...

Mission Focused: * Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research * We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives * Contribute to community ...

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Life Science information

See Reston, VA salary details

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How much do life science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for life science in Reston, VA is $17.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Life Science vs Biological Technician?

AspectLife ScienceBiological Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in biology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firmsLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across biotech, pharma, research institutionsPrimarily in research labs supporting biological research

Life Science is a broad field encompassing various roles in biological research and development, while Biological Technicians focus specifically on supporting laboratory experiments and data collection. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some typical interdisciplinary collaborations that professionals in Life Science roles can expect, and how do these collaborations impact project outcomes?

Professionals in Life Science roles frequently collaborate with experts from fields such as bioinformatics, chemistry, engineering, and clinical research. These interdisciplinary teams are essential for driving innovation, as they combine diverse skill sets to tackle complex biological questions or develop new technologies. Effective collaboration often involves regular meetings, shared project management tools, and clear communication to ensure alignment on goals and timelines. Being open to learning from colleagues in other disciplines greatly enhances both individual and project success, and can open doors to new career pathways within the life sciences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Life Science role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Life Science role, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or related fields, usually supported by a relevant degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software such as SPSS or R, and knowledge of regulatory standards like GLP or GMP is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on research and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate scientific research, compliance with regulations, and successful teamwork in advancing scientific knowledge.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Life Science?

The qualifications to get a job in a life sciences field typically include a bachelor’s degree and specific skills related to your duties. In college, you should study or major in biology, ecology, chemistry, or a closely related field. It is also important to get experience in laboratory and research settings, either through campus jobs or summer internships in the field. Advanced roles require a master’s degree, M.D., or Ph.D. Important skills include technical knowledge, such as how to design experiments, advanced computer literacy, and knowledge of safety protocols. Being a team player and having good interpersonal communication is essential.

What are life science jobs?

Life science jobs refer to positions that involve the study of living organisms and life processes, such as biology, biotechnology, microbiology, and genetics. Professionals in life sciences conduct research, develop new products and technologies, and work in areas like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. These careers can include roles such as researchers, laboratory technicians, biotechnologists, and regulatory specialists. Life science jobs are vital in advancing medical knowledge, improving health outcomes, and addressing global challenges in agriculture and the environment.
What are popular job titles related to Life Science jobs in Reston, VA? For Life Science jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Life Science jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Life Science jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Life Science jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Life Science job openings:

Associate Scientist I

Microbac

Sterling, VA • On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Come join our family! If you are interested in truly making a difference in a collaborative and rewarding work setting with a culture of respect, accountability, appreciation, and loyalty, Microbac might be the right place for you!

We offer a positive working environment with engaged and supportive leadership teams along with competitive pay and benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, generous paid time off including vacation, holidays and flextime, a wellness program, referral bonus, tuition reimbursement and more!

ABOUT MICROBAC

Microbac Laboratories, Inc. is a premier commercial laboratory testing firm that partners with clients nationwide, offering laboratory solutions to life science, food and nutrition, and environmental industries and serves our clients with the utmost expertise and respect for their market requirements, constraints, and challenges. We embody a company-wide commitment to exceptional customer experience, which has been refined by over 50 years of trusted, analytical and measurement experience.

As a privately held third-party testing company, Microbac operates with a commitment to our workforce, safety, quality, and compliance. Our diverse work portfolio includes broad accreditation offerings and tested insights across the environmental, food and nutrition and life science markets.

JOB SUMMARY

The Associate Scientist I, working in an accredited commercial laboratory, is responsible for assisting with the conduct of microbiological assays and associated activities to determine antimicrobial efficacy of household and commercial cleaning products.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Following established SOP’s and adhering to state, federal and other accrediting body requirements, collect information about the antimicrobial properties of substances/samples to support the analytical testing needs of our clients for such purposes as quantitative or qualitative analysis, and product development
  • Perform laboratory housekeeping duties to include autoclaving and glassware processing
  • Prepare necessary standards, solutions, reagents, media, etc., required for sample analyses
  • Perform equipment and instrumentation set up
  • Operate basic and specialized laboratory instrumentation
  • Prepare and analyze samples
  • Accurately record observations and data and interpret results
  • Assists in the development and validation of new analytical methods
  • Assists in the development of new laboratory procedures
  • Assist department supervisors and managers with staff training
  • Contribute to writing, editing, and reviewing SOP’s
  • Perform peer review of data to ensure accuracy
  • Maintain accurate, up to date logs, notebooks, and equipment records
  • Perform necessary laboratory administrative functions such as filing paperwork, photocopying, reviewing of data, and entering data into computerized LIMS
  • Comply with and promote Personnel, Safety, and Quality Program

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a four-year accredited institution in a related field of applied science
  • Prior analytical testing experience
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions and ask questions when necessary
  • Above average knowledge of principles, terminology, practices, techniques, and instrumentation commonly used in a laboratory setting
  • Ability to interpret data and prepare reports
  • Ability to effectively prioritize work and manage time to meet deadlines
  • Computer literacy
  • Ability to work with delicate laboratory equipment
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools; talk or hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, and sit.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision and depth perception.

Working Conditions:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be in a general laboratory and office environment.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
  • This job may require travel less than 20%

As a privately held third-party testing company, Microbac operates with a commitment to safety, quality and compliance. Our diverse work portfolio includes broad accreditation offerings and tested insights across the environmental, food and life science markets.

OTHER:

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties an employee may be required to perform. Microbac reserves the right to revise the job description at any time.

Employment is at-will. Microbac, promotes a drug-free, alcohol-free workplace. Applicants considered for hire must pass a drug test before beginning work. Refusal to submit to testing will result in disqualification of further employment consideration.

Microbac is an Equal Opportunity Employer – We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.