Scientist I

Job Title: Scientist I Job Description
The Scientist I role is an onsite, laboratory-based position that applies engineering and scientific knowledge to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and support research and development activities within the medical device field. This position contributes directly to product quality and patient safety by generating reliable data, supporting test method development, and maintaining accurate documentation in accordance with established quality systems and standard operating procedures.
Responsibilities
- Remain current on technologies, scientific advancements, and relevant literature within the functional area to inform experimental design and method development.
- Support the evaluation and testing of new technologies and research targets within the laboratory and broader functional area.
- Generate high-quality data to support internal documents, technical posters, and presentations.
- Utilize an understanding of legal boundaries surrounding information sharing and documentation, and contribute to brainstorming activities related to intellectual property under guidance.
- Develop an understanding of experimental protocols and design processes, such as Design of Experiments (DOE), and execute experiments under direction while performing routine work independently.
- Apply basic data analysis techniques, build proficiency in more complex data analysis, identify issues with data integrity, and compare results against historical data and established benchmarks.
- Summarize experimental results, contribute to the creation of technical reports, and maintain thorough and accurate experimental paperwork and laboratory notebook documentation.
- Develop methods and processes under the direction of senior technical staff to support test method development and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Participate as an extended team member in the planning and execution of experiments, collaborating effectively with colleagues in research and development and quality control.
- Perform assigned routine experimental techniques and laboratory processes in accordance with the requirements of the functional area and established SOPs.
- Order laboratory supplies and submit sample requests as directed by senior staff, following standard operating procedures for materials and inventory management.
- Perform equipment maintenance as needed and assist in generating and executing equipment Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) protocols.
- Adhere to all Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) procedures and general housekeeping SOPs to maintain a safe, clean, and compliant laboratory environment.
- Comply with site- and department-specific procedures related to record keeping, use of log books, materials receiving, and inventory control.
- Complete time records accurately and report project time allocation in accordance with departmental requirements.
- Participate in implementing solutions for laboratory and infrastructure improvements to enhance efficiency, safety, and data quality.
- Demonstrate a primary commitment to patient safety and product quality by maintaining compliance with the Quality Policy and all documented quality processes and procedures.
- For individuals with supervisory responsibilities, ensure appropriate resources such as personnel and tools are maintained to support Quality System compliance, and promote a work environment that upholds the Quality Policy and Quality System.
Essential Skills
- Bachelors degree (BA/BS) in Biology, Chemistry, or a related Engineering field.
- At least 2 years of experience in the medical device industry.
- Hands-on approach to method development and laboratory work.
- Strong self-motivation with a genuine passion for solving complex technical problems.
- Ability to communicate complex scientific and technical concepts clearly and simply, both orally and in writing.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities in a timeline-driven environment.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively as a team player with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency with computer applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat.
- Prior experience in test documentation through laboratory notebooks or formal reports.
- Commitment to patient safety, product quality, and adherence to established Quality System requirements.
- Ability to follow and comply with standard operating procedures (SOPs) in chemistry, biology, laboratory, research and development, and quality control settings.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Test method development experience in a laboratory or medical device environment.
- Knowledge of Minitab statistical software.
- Competence in Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology, such as Design-Expert, and application of the scientific method.
- Experience using statistical analysis software, including Minitab, to interpret experimental data.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to experimental design, data interpretation, and process improvement.
- Demonstrated experience analyzing and fulfilling documentation requirements in regulated environments.
- Experience in the medical device industry, preferably involving testing of medical devices.
- Familiarity with quality control practices and research and development processes in a laboratory setting.
Work Environment
This position is based onsite at a laboratory facility and operates on a first-shift schedule, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The work environment is hands-on and research-focused, involving routine use of laboratory equipment, experimental setups, and computer-based tools for data analysis and documentation. Team members work in a structured setting governed by standard operating procedures, Environmental Health and Safety guidelines, and a robust Quality System that emphasizes patient safety and product quality. The role requires adherence to established laboratory housekeeping standards and careful record keeping in log books and lab notebooks. Attire is consistent with standard laboratory practice, including appropriate protective equipment as required for safe operation in chemistry, biology, and medical device testing activities.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Maple Grove, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $31.00 - $36.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Maple Grove, MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 27, 2026.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Maple Grove,MN. 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.

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Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the
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