Scientist – Molecular Assay Development

On-Board Services is hiring a Scientist – Molecular Assay Development in San Diego, CA

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On-Board Services, Incorporated is an on-site contract service provider for a local manufacturing entity providing full time positions to our employees. We offer benefits as well as 401k.

Title: Scientist – Molecular Assay Development
Position Type: 6 month contract assignment with additional opportunity contingent upon performance and continued business need
Job Location: San Diego, CA
Shift: 1st Shift
Benefits: 401K, Dental insurance, Life Insurance, Medical Insurance, Vision Insurance, PTO
Compensation: $40-$43/HR

This role supports molecular assay design and development activities across multiple programs. The Associate Scientist/Scientist will execute experimental plans, analyze data, and contribute to assay development, validation, and transfer activities while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

• Support molecular assay design and development across multiple programs
• Conduct feasibility studies and contribute to technical approach selection (e.g., qPCR, RT-qPCR, multiplex strategies) under guidance
• Execute experimental plans and generate high-quality data to support assay development milestones
• Contribute to analytical validation studies including LoD, precision, reproducibility, and robustness
• Analyze and interpret molecular data, identify trends, and clearly communicate results to the team
• Support troubleshooting of assay chemistry, workflows, and instrumentation
• Participate in cross-functional design reviews and provide technical input
• Contribute to risk assessments (e.g., FMEA) and support design control activities
• Assist in development of QC strategies, reference material characterization, and analytical controls
• Generate data summaries and technical reports to support regulatory documentation
• Collaborate with Manufacturing and Operations teams to support assay transfer and scale-up
• Maintain accurate and compliant laboratory documentation in accordance with quality and regulatory requirements
• Stay current on emerging molecular technologies and support continuous improvement initiatives

Internal Partners

• R&D and Assay Development Teams – Execute experiments, generate data, and support assay optimization
• Bioinformatics – Collaborate on target selection, sequence analysis, and assay performance
• Regulatory and Quality – Provide technical data and documentation to support submissions
• Manufacturing and Operations – Support assay transfer and process optimization
• Program Management – Communicate progress, risks, and timelines

External Partners

• CROs and external partners – Support execution of external studies
• Reference material suppliers – Assist with qualification and performance monitoring

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or related discipline required
• Master’s degree preferred

• Associate Scientist: 2–5 years of experience in molecular assay development or a related field
• Scientist: 5–8 years of experience in molecular assay development or diagnostics
• Experience working in regulated environments (FDA, ISO 13485, design control) preferred

• Experience with qPCR and RT-qPCR techniques
• Understanding of nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection
• Familiarity with multiplex assay development and optimization
• Experience with analytical validation and performance characterization
• Basic knowledge of sequencing technologies (Sanger and/or NGS)
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of design control and risk management principles
• Working knowledge of BSL-2 laboratory practices
• Strong data analysis, documentation, and communication skills

• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. regularly
• Walking, standing, and sitting for extended periods (up to 75% of the day)
• Close and distance vision with the ability to adjust focus required
• Personal protective equipment must be worn as required

On-Board was founded in…