Biologist 3rd Shift Lead

Job Title: Biologist 3rd Shift Lead Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Biologist to lead our 3rd shift laboratory team. This role involves working in a BSL-2 laboratory environment where you will leverage your scientific expertise and hands-on laboratory experience to contribute to health and safety solutions.
Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee the 3rd shift laboratory operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality standards.
- Perform DNA extraction, PCR, immunoassays, and other microbiological analyses.
- Manage high-throughput sample processing and reagent preparation efficiently.
- Utilize strong analytical skills to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
- Communicate effectively with technical teams to support project objectives.
- Identify and address potential laboratory operation issues or opportunities.
- Maintain detailed documentation of laboratory activities and findings.
- Train and guide laboratory staff to foster a collaborative work environment.
Essential Skills
- Experience in BSL-2 laboratory settings.
- Proficiency in DNA extraction, PCR, and immunoassays.
- Strong microbiology and laboratory skills.
- Leadership and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective communication skills in technical environments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and adaptability to new software.
- Excellent time management and multitasking capabilities.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent experience.
- M.S. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field.
- B.S. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field with a minimum of 3 years of relevant laboratory experience.
- Experience in wet chemistry and aseptic techniques.
Work Environment
This position operates in a laboratory setting within a secure military facility. The work schedule is 3rd shift, 4 days a week (Saturday through Tuesday), with 10-hour shifts: Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM, and Monday and Tuesday from 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Gaithersburg, MD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $42.30 - $42.30/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 Gaithersburg, MD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Nov 16, 2026.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Gaithersburg,MD. 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 [email protected] 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.