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Scientific Instrumentation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$76K/yr

... instrumentation systems for testing weapon system installation. Serve as assistants to higher grade level scientists responsible for subject-matter or program areas. GS-13: One year of specialized ...

$76K/yr

... instrumentation systems for testing weapon system installation. Serve as assistants to higher grade level scientists responsible for subject-matter or program areas. GS-13: One year of specialized ...

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Scientific Instrumentation information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$28

$76

How much do scientific instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 jobs can you get with instrumentation?

With a background in scientific instrumentation, common jobs include instrumentation technician, research scientist, laboratory engineer, calibration specialist, and quality control analyst. These roles often require knowledge of measurement tools, calibration procedures, and data analysis, and may involve working in laboratories, manufacturing, or research environments.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Scientific instrumentation professionals are in steady demand due to ongoing advancements in research, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Skills in calibration, troubleshooting, and familiarity with laboratory tools increase employability, especially in environments requiring precision and technical expertise.

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 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.

How much do instrument techs get paid?

Instrument technicians in Louisiana typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the instruments they service. Salaries can vary based on industry, location within the state, and whether the role involves specialized equipment or maintenance work.

What does an instrument scientist do?

An instrument scientist designs, develops, and maintains scientific instruments used in research laboratories and facilities. They often work with complex equipment such as spectrometers, microscopes, or particle detectors, and require knowledge of physics, engineering, and data analysis. Their role includes troubleshooting, calibration, and optimizing instrument performance to ensure accurate experimental results.

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.
Infographic showing various Scientific Instrumentation job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,375 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Automation Specialist I - Vaccines - Second Shift

Automation Specialist I - Vaccines - Second Shift

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Richmond, VA

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 398 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Second Shift (Afternoons)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Cold Room/Freezers -22degreesF/-6degrees C, Laboratory Setting, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.)

Job Description

This is a fully onsite role based at our BioAnalytical in Richmond, VA. We welcome applicants from all locations within the US. Please note that relocation assistance is not provided for this position, and any relocation costs will be the responsibility of the candidate.  

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check, which includes a drug screening. 

The working schedule for this role is Monday - Friday from ~2-10:30PM.

Join Us as an Automation Specialist – Make an Impact at the Forefront of Innovation
At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life - enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while taking science a step beyond through research, development and delivery of life-changing therapies. With clinical trials conducted in 100+ countries and ongoing development of novel frameworks for clinical research through our PPD clinical research portfolio, our work spans laboratory, digital and decentralized clinical trial services. Your determination to deliver quality and accuracy will improve health outcomes that people and communities depend on – now and in the future.
Our PPD® Laboratory Services team has a direct impact on improving patient health through the expertise of scientists, industry thought-leaders and therapeutic experts. As the world leader in serving science, our laboratory professionals bring their commitment to accuracy and quality to deliver groundbreaking innovations.
As an Automation Specialist I you will perform a variety of routine to moderately complex activities in support of automated instrumentation. You will conduct activities following company SOPs and policies, while also adhering to automation best practices with periodic direct supervision.
What You'll Do:
• Maintains maintenance schedule as required for automated instrumentation with periodic supervision.
• Performs routine hardware replacements.
• Assists in liquid class testing and/or labware creation for automated liquid handling workstations with periodic supervision.
• Assists in implementing new scripts/methods through developmental testing with supervision.
• Responds to and aids lab personnel in error handling situations for automated instrumentation.
• Develops basic troubleshooting skills (hardware and/or software)
• May program new (or revise) scripts with low to moderate complexity in support of maintenance activities and/or assay methods on automated instrumentation with supervision
• Develops documentation skills to adhere to relevant SOPs and laboratory automation standard processes
Education & Experience Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent and relevant formal academic / vocational qualification.
• Previous experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job (comparable to 1+ years).

In some cases an equivalency, consisting of a combination of appropriate education, training and/or directly related experience, will be considered sufficient for an individual to meet the requirements of the role.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
• Direct experience with laboratory instrumentation required
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word; experience with programming (Hamilton Venus, TECAN EVOware or Fluent Control, Thermo Momentum, VB, Python, etc.) preferred
• Time management skills; demonstrates self-management of assigned tasks
• Ability to work in a collaborative work environment with a team
• Ability to understand and independently apply GMPs and /or GLPs to everyday work
• Proficient in weekly and monthly maintenance events for automated instrumentation
• Developing in training of other laboratory staff for preventative maintenance activities and/or high throughput automated sample analysis
Working Environment:
• Work is performed in a laboratory and/or a clinical environment with rare to daily exposure to electrical office equipment, irritants, radiation, toxic materials, biological fluids, fluctuating and/or extreme temperatures, and hazardous waste
• Personal protective equipment such as protective eyewear, garments and gloves may be required at times
• Repetitive hand movement of both hands with the ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists to operate lab equipment
• Ability to access and use a variety of computer software developed both in-house and off-the-shelf
• Standing, walking, and twisting of upper body/neck required constantly. Crouching/stooping required daily. Kneeling and pushing/pulling of items required frequently. Ability to work in an upright and /or stationary position for 6-8 hours per day
• Light to moderate lifting and carrying (or otherwise moves) objects with a maximum lift of 15-50 lbs.
• Ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences
• Frequently interacts with others to acquire or relate information to diverse groups
• Works independently with guidance or reliance on oral or written instructions and plans work schedules to meet goals. Requires multiple periods of intense concentration
• Performs a wide range of variable tasks as dictated by variable demands and changing conditions with little predictability as to the occurrence. Ability to perform under stress.


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