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Temporary Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Temporary Quality Operator

Elkton, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

The Temporary Quality Operator position is responsible for performing a variety of basic ... Bachelor's degree in a science related field of study or 1-3 years microbiology laboratory/brewing ...

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Temporary Science information

What are some of the unique challenges faced by professionals in temporary science roles and how can they be addressed?

Temporary science professionals often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new work environments, learning unfamiliar lab protocols, and managing tight project timelines. To succeed, it's important to demonstrate flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to rapidly acquire new knowledge. Building strong relationships with permanent staff and proactively seeking feedback can help temporary scientists integrate smoothly and make impactful contributions during their assignment.

What are temporary science jobs?

Temporary science jobs are short-term positions in scientific fields, such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, or laboratory research. These jobs may be offered on a contract, seasonal, or project basis, often to assist with specific research projects or to cover staffing needs during busy periods. Temporary science roles can provide valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a pathway to permanent employment in the scientific sector. They are commonly found in research institutions, universities, government agencies, and private companies. Positions may range from laboratory assistants to field researchers or data analysts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Science Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Science Technician, you generally need a solid background in laboratory procedures, scientific principles, and a relevant science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, safe lab environments, and efficient support for ongoing scientific projects.

What is the difference between Temporary Science vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectTemporary ScienceLaboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in science or related fieldUsually requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentVaries; often short-term projects in research labs, fieldwork, or testing facilitiesPrimarily in laboratories performing tests, experiments, and sample analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by research institutions, biotech firms, and testing companies for temporary projectsCommonly employed in healthcare, environmental, and industrial labs

Temporary Science roles are often project-based, requiring a science degree, and involve diverse environments. Laboratory Technicians typically hold specific certifications and work mainly in lab settings. Both roles serve vital functions in scientific and testing industries, but differ mainly in scope, credentials, and work setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Science jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Temporary Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Temporary Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Temporary Science job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.
SCIENCE ADVISOR

$105K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as a Science Advisor in the Office of Naval Research Global.Qualifications:These positions are interdisciplinary positions at the GS-15 (or pay band equivalent) that may be filled in any of the following series:
0401- Biological Sciences; 0801-Engineering; 1301-Physical Sciences; 1515-Operations Research; 1520-Mathematics; 1550-Computer Science.
In order to qualify for this position, your resume must provide sufficient experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are being considered. Your resume is the key means we have for evaluating your skills, knowledge, and abilities as they relate to this position. Therefore, we encourage you to be clear and specific when describing your experience. Top candidates have experience with senior-level briefings and negotiations concerning prioritization of technological requirements.
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position (see the Education section), your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-14) or demonstration project level in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience is defined as experience that is typically in or related to the position being filled and has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities, to successfully perform the duties of the position. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: demonstrated experience with a broad spectrum of Naval Warfare areas or systems. This may have been gained through operational Research and Development (R&D), or acquisition program experience.
Selectees may be placed in any location based on the needs of the command. GS candidates must meet time-in-grade (TIG) (generally, one year at the next lower grade). Demonstration project candidates may be required to meet time-in level based on the demonstration project to which they belong (for most Science and Technology Reinvention Laboratories (STRLs) this is one year at the next lower pay band). Pay setting is handled by the home activity based on the home activity's pay setting rules. Under "Who May Apply" or where most appropriate: Selectees may serve on a temporary reassignment of temporary promotion depending on their qualifications.Education:Applicants must meet the following positive education qualifications requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual: Applicants must possess at least one of the following levels of education:
0401 Biological Sciences: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualificationstandards/0400/general-natural-resources-management-and-biological-sciences-series-0401/
0801 General Engineering: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualificationstandards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf
1301 Physical Sciences: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualificationstandards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/
1515 Operations Research: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualificationstandards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/
1520 Mathematics: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/ mathematics-series-1520
1550 Computer Science: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualificationstandards/1500/computer-science-series-1550/
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the qualification requirements if the applicant can provide documentation indicating that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide such evidence when applying for further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/ list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html
See the Office of Personnel Management's General Policies for information on crediting education.
A transcript must be submitted with your application if qualifying using education. See Required Documents for additional information.Employment Type: OTHER

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