Laboratory Scientist - Entry Level

OVERVIEW:

Merrick is seeking an Entry Level Scientist with a background and interest in microbiology, virology, or related fields to support biorepository characterization and inventory assessments and day-to-day science functions at our client site, Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), New York - not a Merrick office location.

Relocation assistance will be considered. Merrick will be hiring multiple scientists for this project.

Typical salary range for this position is $49,000.00-$65,000.00 annually. Base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and education level.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Demonstrate laboratory skills and safety procedures including proper handling of chemicals and/or biologicals, use of aseptic technique
• Perform viability assessments on biological materials, appropriate authentication/characterization procedures for biological materials
• Prepare and/or propagate biological materials
• Record data in appropriate format within digitized data management systems, to include translation of data in notebooks, batch records, or advanced databases
• Monitor laboratory equipment and report issues if equipment is not functioning within appropriate specifications
• Demonstrate advanced computer skills, including ability to support technology transfer between systems
• Gain familiarity with biorepository and select agent inventory management systems, and support transfer of data, as needed
• Work collaboratively with scientists and biorepository personnel across multiple federal agencies and contractor teams
• Communicate and coordinate with all project stakeholders as required for successful project execution.
• Maintain and develop positive client relationships.
• Apply analytical skills to project approaches, standards, and solutions, throughout project lifecycle
• May be tasked to participate in a variety of professional and/or social societies or programs designed to elevate Merrick’s professional and community standing.
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and business ethics required.
• Actively participate in, and remain current with, client site and Merrick regulatory and training requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of one (1) year of laboratory work experience.
• Demonstrated history of performing and reporting technical work in a laboratory.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interface successfully with clients and team members.
• Have or be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance for work with the US Federal Government.
• Bachelor's Degree from accredited University of Higher Education Institution in microbiology, virology, or related field.
• Good working knowledge of biosafety.
• Due to biosecurity requirements, employees may not own or work with cloven-hoofed animals, rabbits, pigs, or chickens.
• All employees are required to pass a background check based on criteria determined by the client and Merrick.
• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Assays (ELISA, PCR, etc.), cell culture, and sequencing reaction and analysis experience is strongly preferred.
• Past performance working in or for U.S. federal agencies (i.e., DoD, DHS, HHS) strongly preferred.
• Experience with laboratory inventory management and related data sets strongly preferred.
• Past or current U.S. Federal Select Agent Program clearance preferred.

PERKS:

• Employee Owned - all eligible U.S. employees have an Employee Stock Ownership Account.
• Robust Employee Referral Program.
• Annual performance reviews and merit increases.
• Professional Training and Development.
• Employee Recognition Awards.
• Peer Mentor Program
• And Much More!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Apply online only. No e-mail, hard copy or third-party resumes accepted.
• Merrick & Company offers a competitive compensation and benefits package which includes health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), and paid time off (PTO).
• Merrick is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
• Employment with Merrick is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions