Associate Scientist Jobs in California

Join our Mission to Protect Humankind!

Vaxcyte is a clinical-stage vaccine innovation company engineering high-fidelity vaccines to protect humankind from the consequences of bacterial diseases, which have serious and costly health consequences when left unchecked. Working to eradicate or treat bacterial infections such as invasive pneumococcal disease, Group A Strep, and Shigella is just the beginning. Our path to success is clear and well-defined, and Vaxcyte is set up to go the distance.

WHAT we do is every bit as important as HOW we do it! Our work together is guided by four enduring core values:

• RETHINK CONVENTION: We bring creative and intellectual diversity to every facet of the work we do in order to innovate and re-innovate the way vaccines are delivered.
• AIM HIGH: We embody our collectively audacious goal to courageously make the most complex biologics ever attempted to protect humankind.
• LEAD WITH HEART: Everyone leads at Vaxcyte with a kindness-first, inclusive approach to collaboration and vigorous debate that advances our business objectives.
• MODEL EXCELLENCE: The magnitude of our challenge requires our shared commitment to demonstrating integrity, accountability, equality and clarity across communications and decision making.

Summary:

Vaxcyte has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and talented individual to join our Analytical Development team. The Associate Scientist II, Analytical Development, is responsible for executing analytical testing and supporting method development activities for biologics/vaccine development programs. This role will perform routine and non-routine analytical assays using modern analytical techniques and will contribute to method optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives under supervision. The position requires demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience, strong technical execution, and the ability to work independently on routine tasks while supporting more complex development activities.

Essential Functions:

Analytical Testing & Data Generation

• Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods (e.g., HPLC/UPLC, SEC, CE, UV-Vis, ELISA, electrophoresis, plate-based assays, and other biochemical or biophysical techniques).
• Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and buffers according to established protocols.
• Execute assays in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards (GLP/GMP as applicable).
• Perform data processing and preliminary interpretation; summarize findings for review by senior scientists.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.

Method Development & Troubleshooting (Under Supervision)

• Support method development, optimization, and qualification activities under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Assist in designing experiments to evaluate method parameters and robustness.
• Troubleshoot assay performance issues and instrument-related problems, proposing potential solutions for review.
• Participate in method transfer activities, including protocol execution and documentation.
• Contribute to drafting and revising analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports.

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

• Coordinate instrument service activities and assist with vendor interactions as needed.
• Ensure laboratory organization, cleanliness, and proper material storage.
• Manage inventory of reagents, standards, and consumables; assist with procurement and restocking.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and laboratory safety practices.
• Handle chemicals and biological materials safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Ensure proper waste disposal and adherence to hazardous material handling procedures.
• Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support project timelines and deliverables.
• Provide clear communication on experimental progress, risks, and results.
• Contribute to a positive, compliant, and scientifically rigorous laboratory culture.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years, or Master’s degree with 1+ years of relevant laboratory experience in analytical development, QC, or related field. Other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as chromatography, electrophoresis, or immunoassays is required.
• Experience supporting method development or optimization activities preferred.
• Solid understanding of analytical chemistry or biochemistry principles.
• Experience with method troubleshooting and data interpretation.
• Familiarity with analytical software and data analysis tools.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently on routine assignments and manage multiple tasks.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Reports to: Senior Scientist, Analytical Development for Raw Materials

Location: San Carlos, CA

Work Arrangement: Onsite (5 days per week)

Expected Contract Length: 12 Months

Hourly Range: $51 - $56 (SF Bay Area)

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.