Laboratory Scientist

Merrick is seeking a Temporary Laboratory 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 – this is not located at a Merrick office. 

Typical salary range for this position is $50,000.00-$75,000.00 annually. Base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and education level.

• Demonstrate laboratory skills and safety procedures including proper handling of chemicals and/or biologicals, use of aseptic technique
• Dispositioning of biological materials
• Record data in appropriate format within digitized data management systems, to include translation of data in notebooks, batch records, or advanced databases
• Deactivation and decontamination of laboratory equipment
• 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.
• Maintain a high degree of professionalism, integrity, and business ethics.
• Actively participate in, and remain current with, client site and Merrick regulatory and training requirements.

• 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.
• Candidates must be willing to relocate to a location within 45 minutes of the Old Saybrook, CT or Orient Point, NY ferry docks.

• Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship.

• 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.

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

• Apply online only. No e-mail, hard copy or third-party resumes accepted.
• At Merrick, every resume is carefully reviewed by our team of experienced human recruiters—never by AI. We are committed to a fully human-centered hiring process, ensuring each candidate receives thoughtful, personalized attention at every stage.
• 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 completion of a pre-employment background check, MVR check, and drug screen.