Quality Control Scientist

Job Title: Quality Control Scientist

Job Description

The Quality Control Scientist supports an in‑house Quality Control team by performing molecular biology and biochemical assays to enable the release, characterization, and stability testing of internally manufactured materials. This role focuses on DNA and RNA testing, including sequencing and contamination analysis, and ensures all activities meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and regulatory standards through precise documentation and adherence to established procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and biochemical assays involving DNA and RNA to support release, characterization, and stability testing of internally manufactured materials.
• Conduct core molecular biology techniques such as pipetting, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and related sample preparation.
• Execute sequencing workflows and DNA/RNA sample preparation, including gDNA contamination analysis and endo‑ and exonuclease assays.
• Prepare solutions and buffers accurately to support routine and specialized laboratory assays.
• Operate fragment analyzers and perform HPLC testing, utilizing Chromeleon software for data acquisition and analysis.
• Maintain method‑specific inventory of reagents, consumables, and retention samples to ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Support subject matter experts and QC scientists by providing reliable assay execution, data, and documentation.
• Assist with daily laboratory setup, ensuring equipment, materials, and workspaces are ready for testing activities.
• Follow established SOPs and written procedures consistently to maintain assay integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Document all laboratory procedures carefully and accurately in accordance with GMP standards.
• Complete all required GMP documentation in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment through proper handling of materials and adherence to quality practices.

Essential Skills

• Basic molecular biology laboratory skills, including accurate pipetting, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and related techniques.
• Hands‑on experience with DNA and RNA sample preparation, sequencing, and qPCR.
• Proficiency in biochemical and molecular biology assays used for release, characterization, and stability testing.
• Demonstrated ability to follow written procedures and standard operating procedures precisely.
• Strong attention to detail and careful documentation of laboratory procedures in line with GMP standards.
• Experience with GMP documentation and working in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Ability to manage and maintain retention samples, reagent inventory, and method‑specific consumables.
• Solid understanding of quality control principles in a laboratory setting.
• Effective organizational skills to support daily laboratory setup and ongoing QC activities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• 1-3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience in a QC, analytical, or regulated laboratory environment.
• 1-3 years of experience working under GMP conditions.
• Practical experience with DNA and RNA sequencing workflows and sample preparation.
• Familiarity with qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and other core molecular biology techniques.
• Experience operating fragment analyzers and performing HPLC testing, preferably with Chromeleon software.
• Ability to collaborate with scientists and technical experts in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for clear documentation and reporting of results.

Work Environment

This role is based in a combined laboratory and office setting, providing exposure to advanced molecular biology and biochemical testing technologies. The position follows a Monday through Friday schedule, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering consistent daytime hours.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Madison, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $32.00/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 Madison,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 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.