Researcher (Carlsbad)
This entry-level Researcher role at Confidential Client supports process development and experimental batch manufacturing of solid-support products under senior supervision. The position involves hands-on laboratory work, analytical testing, data processing, and bilingual communication to assist business development and customer interactions. The role offers training and development opportunities to progress toward independent execution of technical and documentation tasks in a regulated laboratory environment.
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, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Researcher to join a Process Development team in Carlsbad, CA. Under supervision, you will perform hands‑on process development and Research Use Only (RUO) batch manufacture, run analytical testing, process data, and support customer-facing technical activities. This role includes training and progressive responsibility, with occasional remote work and possible travel to Asian markets.
Estimated pay: $41,666 per year (estimated).
Key responsibilities
- Prepare materials, reagents, solutions, equipment, and work areas for experiments and RUO batch activities.
- Execute assigned RUO/experimental solid‑support manufacturing tasks (loading, reaction monitoring, sampling, washing, filtration, drying, packaging) following procedures.
- Maintain accurate batch, laboratory, equipment and sample records; check calculations and traceability.
- Perform in‑process and final analytical testing after training; compile results for review.
- Cross‑train on QC test methods; prepare samples and operate instruments per methods.
- Support analytical method development, validation, verification, and transfer under direction.
- Process and organize raw analytical/process data; perform calculations, plotting, basic statistics and trending; summarize atypical results for review.
- Support process studies, product evaluations, investigations and improvement activities.
- Maintain laboratory readiness, inventory tracking, and safe chemical/waste handling.
- Assist Business Development with English‑Mandarin communication, translation of technical materials, meeting notes, and preliminary statements of work and costing.
- Prepare technical summaries and presentation materials for customer and internal meetings.
- Participate in customer visits and occasional travel to China/Asia as assigned.
- Assist with drafting or revising protocols, test methods, work instructions and technical reports as capability develops.
- Other duties as assigned.
Minimum qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or related scientific discipline. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
- Strong academic performance in relevant coursework (chemistry, lab techniques, quantitative analysis).
- Hands‑on laboratory coursework demonstrating safe lab practice, accurate measurement, following written procedures and documenting results.
- Bilingual proficiency in English and Mandarin (spoken and written) is required for customer and BD support.
- Working proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint; aptitude for accurate data entry, formulas, plotting and data checks.
- Strong quantitative aptitude (unit conversions, dilutions, concentrations, basic statistics).
- Attention to detail and disciplined documentation habits.
- Ability to learn procedures, instruments and safety requirements; seek guidance when outside expectations.
- Ability to organize work, adapt to changing priorities and collaborate with a small cross‑functional team.
- Prior internships, undergraduate research or industry exposure preferred; experience with solid supports, oligonucleotide chemistry, analytical instrumentation, or QMS advantageous.
Physical demands & work environment
- Full‑time, on‑site position in Carlsbad, CA with occasional ad‑hoc remote work by approval.
- Frequent sitting at a desk and frequent standing/walking to observe equipment and record logs.
- Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds; occasionally lift >100 pounds with assistance or mechanical devices.
- Occasional overhead lifting up to 50 pounds; bending, squatting, kneeling, crawling or climbing occasionally.
- Ability to push, pull, reach and perform hand/wrist repetitions; gross motor strength for tools and fine manipulation for touchscreens.
- Visual acuity for close work, color discrimination and focus.
Professional development & why apply
- Hands‑on exposure to process development and RUO manufacturing in a scientific environment.
- Training and mentorship with a pathway to independent execution and broader technical responsibilities.
- Opportunity to support business development activities and customer interactions, including cross‑cultural/English‑Mandarin technical communication.
- Experience with analytical methods, data analysis, and technical documentation that supports career growth in R&D/QC roles.
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.
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