Quality Control Scientist

Job Title: Quality Control Scientist

Job Description

The Quality Control Scientist supports an in‑house Quality Control laboratory 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-based testing, including PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing, and related sample preparation, as well as high-throughput assays such as endo- and exonuclease testing and genomic DNA contamination analysis. The scientist follows established GMP procedures, maintains accurate documentation, and ensures that laboratory operations run smoothly through diligent preparation of solutions, buffers, and inventory management.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology assays involving DNA and RNA, including pipetting, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing, and associated sample preparation.
• Execute biochemical and molecular biology assays to support release, characterization, and stability testing of internally manufactured materials.
• Conduct high-running assays such as endo- and exonuclease testing and genomic DNA contamination analysis.
• Prepare solutions and buffers according to established methods and quality standards.
• Operate and support testing on fragment analyzers and HPLC instruments using Chromeleon software.
• Maintain reagent, consumables, and method-specific inventory to ensure continuous laboratory operations and support subject matter experts and QC scientists.
• Assist with daily laboratory setup, including equipment readiness, reagent preparation, and workspace organization.
• Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and written methods precisely during all laboratory activities.
• Complete all required GMP documentation accurately, legibly, and in compliance with regulatory and internal quality standards.
• Carefully document all laboratory procedures, observations, and results in accordance with GMP and QC requirements.
• Support the upkeep of retention samples and reagent inventory, ensuring proper labeling, storage, and traceability.
• Collaborate with QC scientists and other team members to troubleshoot assays and maintain high data quality.
• Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory environment by adhering to all laboratory safety and quality practices.

Essential Skills

• Basic molecular biology laboratory skills, including accurate pipetting, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
• Hands-on experience with DNA or RNA sample preparation, sequencing, and qPCR.
• Proficiency in performing biochemical and molecular biology assays for release, characterization, and stability testing.
• Demonstrated ability to follow written procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) precisely.
• Strong attention to detail and careful documentation of laboratory procedures in a GMP environment.
• Experience with GMP documentation and compliance requirements.
• 1-4 years of hands-on laboratory experience in a quality control, analytical, or regulated laboratory environment working with DNA and RNA sequencing and sample preparation, as well as pipetting, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
• 1-4 years of experience working under GMP conditions.
• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a QC or analytical laboratory supporting release and stability testing.
• Familiarity with high-throughput assays such as endo- and exonuclease testing and genomic DNA contamination analysis.
• Experience operating fragment analyzers and HPLC systems, preferably using Chromeleon software.
• Strong organizational skills to manage retention samples, reagents, and method-specific inventory.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with biochemists and QC subject matter experts.
• Commitment to maintaining high data quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

Work Environment

This role is based in a combined laboratory and office environment. The position follows a Monday through Friday schedule, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The scientist works closely with a team that includes several biochemists with extensive experience, as well as technical specialists in validation. Daily work involves hands-on use of molecular biology and biochemical laboratory equipment, including PCR instruments, gel electrophoresis systems, fragment analyzers, and HPLC systems operated through Chromeleon software. The environment emphasizes GMP compliance, accurate documentation, and safe laboratory practices, with a culture of collaboration, technical excellence, and continuous support for high-quality QC operations.

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 May 29, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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.