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Scientific Instrumentation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Laser Scientist

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Leverages expertise in test instrumentation, scientific processes, and lab environment optimization. Ensures that all technical systems are operational and performing optimally to meet objectives ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Laser Scientist

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Leverages expertise in test instrumentation, scientific processes, and lab environment optimization. Ensures that all technical systems are operational and performing optimally to meet objectives ...

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How much do scientific instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific instrumentation in Virginia is $28.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrumentation scientist?

An instrumentation scientist designs, develops, and maintains scientific instruments used in research and industry. They often work with complex equipment, such as sensors, detectors, and measurement systems, requiring knowledge of physics, engineering, and data analysis. Their role ensures accurate data collection and instrument performance in laboratory or field environments.

What is the highest paid job in science?

In scientific instrumentation, senior roles such as Director of Scientific Instrumentation or Chief Scientific Officer tend to be among the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities in research facilities or industry settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Scientific Instrumentation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Scientific Instrumentation, a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related scientific field, along with hands-on experience in instrument design and troubleshooting, is essential. Familiarity with CAD software, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and certifications such as ISO 17025 are typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the accuracy, reliability, and innovation necessary for developing and maintaining complex scientific equipment in research and industry settings.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong management skills, and they oversee research projects, staff, and budgets.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in scientific instrumentation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in scientific instrumentation often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, staying current with rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring precise calibration for accurate results. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous training, collaborating closely with research scientists and engineers, and maintaining detailed documentation. Developing strong problem-solving skills and leveraging manufacturer support networks can also help professionals efficiently resolve technical issues and keep instruments running optimally.

What is the difference between Scientific Instrumentation vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScientific InstrumentationLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTechnical degrees, certifications in instrumentation or engineeringAssociate's or bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, technical serviceResearch labs, clinical, educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageInstrument manufacturers, research institutionsHospitals, universities, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonTechnical roles in instrumentationLab support roles

Scientific Instrumentation involves designing, maintaining, and repairing complex scientific devices, often requiring specialized technical certifications. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and support research activities in lab settings. While both work in scientific environments, Scientific Instrumentation focuses on technical expertise with equipment, whereas Laboratory Technicians handle sample processing and data collection.

What jobs can you get with an instrumentation degree?

A degree in scientific instrumentation can lead to roles such as instrumentation engineer, laboratory technician, calibration specialist, or research scientist. These jobs typically involve working with measurement devices, data analysis, and maintaining complex equipment in research, manufacturing, or healthcare environments.

What is scientific instrumentation?

Scientific instrumentation refers to the design, development, and use of devices and equipment that measure, analyze, or control physical, chemical, or biological processes in scientific research and industrial applications. These instruments include spectrometers, microscopes, chromatographs, and sensors, among others. Professionals in this field work on ensuring accuracy, precision, and reliability of measurements, often collaborating with scientists and engineers. Their expertise is crucial in laboratories, manufacturing, healthcare, and environmental monitoring, enabling advances in research and technology.
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Instrumentation jobs in Virginia? For Scientific Instrumentation jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Instrumentation jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Instrumentation jobs in Virginia are:
Scientific Instrumentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Instrumentation job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,375 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Scientist III, Quality Control (Middletown, VA)

Scientist III, Quality Control (Middletown, VA)

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Middletown, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 414 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

Work Schedule
First Shift (Days)
Environmental Conditions
Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards
Job Description
Thermo Fisher Scientific - Clinical Diagnostics Division, Middletown, VA
As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you'll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world's toughest challenges, including protecting the environment, ensuring food safety, and helping find cures for cancer.
Role Description
Within Thermo Fisher Scientific's Clinical Diagnostics Division, the Scientist III position supports regulated diagnostic product operations, manufacturing excellence initiatives, and Quality Control operations at the Middletown, VA site. This role is responsible for providing technical leadership in support of stability programs, investigations, assay performance monitoring, process improvements, and diagnostic product lifecycle activities.
The Scientist III will collaborate cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, R&D, and Operations teams to support technology transfer, process validation, troubleshooting activities, and continuous improvement initiatives. This individual will lead complex investigations, evaluate technical data, support CAPA implementation, and ensure compliance with cGMP, ISO 13485, and internal quality system requirements.
This role has a direct impact on patient care and diagnostic product quality by ensuring reliable and compliant manufacturing and QC processes that support the delivery of high-quality clinical diagnostic products to customers worldwide.
Location
Location: Middletown, VA.
Relocation assistance is NOT provided.
Requirements
  • Master's degree with 3+ years or Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of experience in GMP-regulated pharmaceutical, biotechnology, diagnostics, or medical device manufacturing environments preferred.
  • Preferred fields of study include Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or related scientific disciplines.
  • Hands-on experience with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) required.
  • Experience leading root cause investigations, OOS investigations, deviations,
  • CAPAs, and corrective actions preferred.
  • Experience supporting internal/external audits and regulatory inspections preferred.
  • Experience troubleshooting complex analytical or diagnostic instrumentation platforms preferred.
  • Knowledge of stability programs, product lifecycle management, and QC laboratory operations.
  • Experience with process validation, qualification activities, and change control systems.
  • Expert knowledge of cGMP regulations, ISO 13485 standards, and quality systems.
  • Strong analytical, statistical analysis, and technical writing skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a matrix environment.
  • Experience mentoring colleagues and providing technical training is preferred.
  • Ability to participate in technical discussions with external stakeholders and customers as needed.
  • Ability to support manufacturing operations and critical investigations, including occasional weekend or after-hours support.

Key Responsibilities
  • Provide technical support for QC laboratory operations and manufacturing processes.
  • Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using HPLC, GC, and other laboratory instrumentation.
  • Support raw material, in-process, finished product, and stability testing activities.
  • Lead investigations related to deviations, OOS results, nonconformances, and product quality events.
  • Support stability testing programs and trend analytical data to identify process or product issues.
  • Support process validation, assay qualification, and technology transfer activities.
  • Review technical documentation including protocols, reports, SOPs, and change controls.
  • Support audit readiness activities and participate in regulatory inspections as required.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on compliance, efficiency, and product quality.
  • Mentor junior scientists and provide technical expertise across the organization.

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