Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Title: Scientist I, FormulationPosition Summary
The Scientist I, Formulation is a hands-on role supporting the production of cellular-based products in a collaborative biomanufacturing environment. This individual will contribute to media preparation, cell culture operations, and production workflows using aseptic techniques within a BSL-2 laboratory.
This is an excellent opportunity for early-career scientists to build practical experience in GMP-style manufacturing, cell culture, and bioprocessing while supporting high-quality research and commercial products.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare media, buffers, and solutions according to established formulations and SOPs
- Maintain mammalian and/or insect cell cultures, including passaging, expansion, and monitoring
- Perform cell culture production using shake flasks and bioreactors
- Execute cell harvesting and support downstream cellular assays
- Apply strict aseptic techniques to prevent contamination across all workflows
- Accurately complete batch records, production documentation, and laboratory notebooks in compliance with GMP practices
- Monitor process parameters, document results, and identify deviations or trends
- Maintain lab equipment, perform routine checks, and coordinate troubleshooting or repairs
- Manage inventory of reagents, consumables, and materials
- Identify and escalate process, equipment, or quality issues
- Support SOP updates, batch record revisions, and documentation improvements
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and product quality
- Collaborate cross-functionally to meet production timelines and goals
- Follow all safety procedures, including proper handling of biological and chemical materials
- Adapt to shifting priorities and support operational needs as required
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related discipline
- 0–2 years of laboratory or biomanufacturing experience (internships acceptable)
- Experience or exposure to cell culture (mammalian or insect preferred)
- Knowledge of aseptic technique and BSL-2 lab practices
- Strong documentation skills with attention to detail and data integrity
- Basic understanding of cell biology and bioprocessing principles
- Ability to work safely with chemicals and biological materials
- Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 35 lbs
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with bioreactors or shake flask cultures
- Familiarity with GMP or regulated lab environments
- Experience preparing media and buffer solutions
- Exposure to SOP-driven workflows and quality systems
- Interest in biomanufacturing and process development
- Continuous improvement mindset
Work Environment
- BSL-2 laboratory and biomanufacturing setting
- Monday–Friday schedule (typical business hours)
- Hands-on, lab-based role requiring frequent standing and movement
- Routine use of cell culture equipment, bioreactors, and lab instrumentation
- Team-oriented environment focused on quality, compliance, and continuous improvement
Why This Role
- Entry point into commercial biomanufacturing
- Strong hands-on lab experience
- Collaborative and growth-oriented team
- Exposure to GMP processes and scalable production
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Carlsbad, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.