Scientist II, Protein Purification
You will join a team performing all tasks related to protein purification. You will work in a controlled manufacturing laboratory environment using protein purification equipment and analytical techniques. As a Scientist II, you will apply your knowledge of protein purification and chromatography to execute manufacturing processes, evaluate process performance, troubleshoot routine technical issues, and support continuous improvement activities.
A Day in the Life
Purify protein products in a laboratory setting following standard operating procedures and controlled manufacturing documentation. Utilize laboratory techniques, calculations, materials measurement, equipment operation, and accurate record keeping.
Perform column purification/chromatography, tangential flow filtration (TFF), buffer preparation, SDS-PAGE analysis, and other protein characterization techniques.
Operate Cytiva ÄKTA FPLC systems using UNICORN software and Bio-Rad NGC chromatography systems.
Apply technical knowledge of protein purification and chromatography to make detailed observations, analyze process data, evaluate chromatograms, and ensure processes are operating within established parameters.
Identify and troubleshoot routine process and equipment issues. Escalate complex or unexpected technical issues and support troubleshooting activities as appropriate.
Maintain accurate Batch Data Records, work orders, equipment records, and other required documentation.
Maintain equipment, materials, product inventories, and related records as assigned.
Support the authoring and revision of technical documents, including standard operating procedures and manufacturing batch records, within the requirements of the Quality Management System.
Participate in process improvement activities to improve product quality, yield, process robustness, and productivity.
Support validation, qualification, investigations, and implementation of new or revised manufacturing processes as required.
Collaborate effectively with team members and cross-functional partners to support production, quality, and technical objectives.
Comply with all company safety procedures, Quality Management System requirements, and EH&S programs and maintain knowledge of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for relevant materials.
May perform other related duties as required and/or assigned.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or another related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Experience
3+ years of relevant experience in protein purification within a manufacturing environment or R&D laboratory.
Hands-on experience with Cytiva ÄKTA FPLC systems and UNICORN software and/or Bio-Rad NGC chromatography systems.
Experience with multiple chromatography modes, including affinity, ion-exchange, size-exclusion, and/or hydrophobic interaction chromatography, with an understanding of protein/resin interactions.
Demonstrated ability to execute protein purification processes, analyze results, identify technical issues, and troubleshoot routine problems.
Experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) and other downstream protein processing techniques preferred.
Experience working within a Quality Management System; experience with ISO 9001 and/or GMP environments is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Working theoretical and practical understanding of protein chemistry, chromatography methods, and protein purification techniques.
Demonstrated scientific troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to recognize when additional technical support or escalation is required.
Ability to execute scientific procedures with limited supervision, analyze results, recognize unexpected outcomes, and communicate findings effectively.
Results-oriented and data-driven with excellent attention to detail and documentation practices.
Proactive approach to identifying potential issues and contributing to effective solutions.
Strong collaborative and communication skills with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a manufacturing environment.
Intermediate Excel skills.
Working Conditions
Works in a clean, controlled manufacturing laboratory environment with specialized equipment.
Regularly required to lift up to 20 pounds. May occasionally be required to lift 45 pounds or more with assistance and/or appropriate equipment.
May be required to stand for extended periods while performing duties.
Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours as needed.
Must be able to work safely with chemicals and hazardous materials.
Must be able to work in a +4°C cold room.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $31.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 24, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
