Associate Scientist
The Associate Scientist role is an entry-level laboratory position supporting quality control, analytical chemistry, microbiology, and laboratory operations in various industries including food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology. The position involves sample preparation, laboratory testing, data collection, and documentation while providing hands-on training with advanced laboratory instrumentation and techniques. This contract-to-hire role is based onsite in Verona, WI, ideal for recent graduates seeking to launch a career in laboratory sciences.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, engineering and sciences services and talent solutions.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This is an entry-level Associate Scientist role supporting laboratory operations, analytical testing, and quality control. You'll receive hands-on training from experienced scientists while performing tasks such as:
- Sample preparation and processing for chemical and biological assays
- Performing routine analytical tests using methods like HPLC, GC, FTIR, dissolution, and wet chemistry
- Microbiology tasks including pathogen testing, microbial plating and basic culture work
- Particle size analysis, flow cytometry assistance, and other analytical measurements
- Accurately recording results, maintaining lab notebooks and electronic records
- Performing quality inspections and supporting production and QC teams
- Following SOPs, safety procedures, and maintaining a clean, compliant lab environment
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field
- Laboratory experience through coursework, internships, research projects, or prior industry exposure preferred
- Interest in analytical chemistry, microbiology, and quality control
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document results
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Willingness to learn lab instrumentation and follow established SOPs
Preferred exposure (nice-to-have):
- HPLC, GC, FTIR, dissolution testing, wet chemistry techniques
- Basic microbiology laboratory techniques (plating, sterile technique)
Role Details
- Employment type: Contract to Hire (initial contract with potential for direct hire)
- Workplace: Fully onsite — Verona, California
- Pay range: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour. In accordance with California pay transparency practices, this range is provided as a good-faith estimate; actual pay offered will depend on qualifications, experience, location, and other job-related factors.
- Anticipated application deadline: October 1, 2026
Pay & Benefits (if eligible)
If eligible, benefits for this temporary/contract role may include some or all of the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Voluntary life & AD&D insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability
- 401(k) retirement plan options (pre-tax and Roth)
- Health Savings Account (HSA) options
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid time off options (PTO, sick leave) — eligibility may vary by assignment and length of employment
Location & Workplace Type
- This position is fully onsite in Verona, CA.
- Candidates must be able to commute to the assigned site and work standard laboratory hours unless another schedule is communicated.
About the Confidential Client
Confidential Client provides engineering and sciences services and talent solutions across life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food and consumer-product industries. They partner with customers to deliver laboratory and technical talent that supports product quality, regulatory compliance, and analytical development.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range