Principal Scientist Jobs in Virginia
Principal Scientist jobs in Virginia are in strong and consistent demand, concentrated in defense research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, and federal contract science, with openings at every level from early-career researcher through senior technical lead. The heaviest hiring is in the Northern Virginia corridor, Richmond, and the Hampton Roads area, where employers such as Leidos, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Inova Health System maintain large and ongoing research operations. The most in-demand specialties are computational biology, materials science, and biodefense research. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 32+ Principal Scientist jobs
- 5114174
- Richmond, Virginia, United States
- Department of General Services
- Agriculture and Animal Health
- Applied Sciences and Natural Resources
- Full-Time (Salaried)
- Department of General Services
Are you an Organic Chemist interested in a fulfilling career with the Commonwealth?
Do you have experience serving as a team leader and developing laboratory methods?
Apply to be a Principal Scientist for Trace Organics & Pesticides!
Title: Principal Scientist (Trace Organics & Pesticides) - CL177
State Role Title: Scientist II
Hiring Range: $89,000 - $102,000
Pay Band: 5
Agency: Department of General Services (DGS)
Location: Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services, Richmond, VA
Agency Website: www.dgs.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
DGS is seeking a Principal Scientist for Trace Organics & Pesticides at the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS). DCLS is is one of the largest and most diverse consolidated state laboratories in the nation. With an annual budget of over 30 million dollars and over 250 state employees, DCLS performs approximately 9 million tests annually. Results from these tests are used confidently by local, state, and federal public health, agriculture, food regulatory, environmental protection, and law enforcement officials serving to protect our citizens, food supply, environment, and commerce. DCLS is a member of several public health networks and emergency response groups.
The Trace Organics & Pesticides Group performs laboratory testing using complex instrumentation (i.e. gas chromatographs, high performance liquid chromatographs, and mass spectrometers) to identify toxic organic compounds in samples such as air, water and soil. Laboratory data generated by DCLS are used by state and federal programs such as the National Air Toxics Trends Stations (NATTS) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), and the Virginia Department of Health to make decisions about air quality, waste discharge, drinking water treatment regulations, landfill operation, fertilizer and pesticide application. Other laboratory testing activities in the Organics group include emergency response testing and consumer protection testing to include formulation and animal remedies testing to ensure accurate product labeling and guarantees stated on the label.
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
- Serves in a lead capacity and technical specialist for the workgroup, including training and reviewing the testing of others. Also serves as back-up Technical Manager for TNI purposes.
- Independently perform high-complexity laboratory testing and analysis with accuracy and efficiency, including performing performing liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and other testing.
- Assures team meets production, turnaround times, quality assurance goals, and objectives are met.
- Designs and leads validations and verifications of new instrumentation and methodologies.
- Provides technical and troubleshooting guidance for laboratory instrumentation and test methods.
- Reviews and revises Standard Operating Procedures.
- Assists Lead Scientists and/or Group Manager in preparing grant applications, tracking grant objectives and progress, and providing routine reports.
- Supports quality assurance efforts by monitoring compliance of group with policies and ensuring training objectives are met.
- Maintains a safe and compliant work environment by following SOPs, safety protocols, and laboratory best practices.
- Provides highly technical consultation to agency users, program managers, laboratory staff, and physicians on the interpretation of analytical results.
This position may also be required to respond to emergency testing requests outside of normal business hours.
This position is located in Richmond, Virginia and must report on-site.
We’ve got great benefits!
DGS offers excellent health benefits at affordable pricing, pre-tax spending accounts, paid life insurance, paid Short- and Long-Term Disability benefits, paid holidays, vacation, and other leave benefits, wellness programs, and a state retirement plan with options for tax-deferred retirement savings including employer matching. Additionally, DGS is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Minimum Qualifications
- Meets the educational and work experience requirements for an Organics Technical Manager as defined by the NELAC Institute (TNI) Standard EL-V1M2-2016-Rev2.1 section 5.2.6.1.
- Experience serving as a team leader, including coordinating, prioritizing, and reviewing the work of others.
- Experience with laboratory method development, including validation/verification procedures.
- Experience performing and documenting interpretations of data and QC to meet quality assurance requirements.
- Comprehensive knowledge and work-related experience with the theory and application of chemical principles.
- Skill in the application, operation, and troubleshooting of complex laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices for the handling of chemical, microbiological, infectious or toxic materials.
- Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to provide written reports of research findings/interpretations, provide formal technical trainings, and consultation to customers relating to specimen submission, specimen testing and/or interpretation of results.
- Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment and plan, organize, and implement independent research projects.
- Good technical skills and strong attention to detail, including the ability to follow procedures, identify errors, and problem-solve.
- Experience and skill working with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Ability to occasionally handle, push, pull, and/or move 50 or more lbs.
- Ability to work occasional after-hours and/or weekends as needed for emergency coverage and workflow..
Visa sponsorship will not be provided for this position now or in the future. Confirmation of eligibility to work will be required at time of hire.
The selected candidate must also pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Additional Considerations
- Experience performing liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS).
- Experience with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) gas chromatography, and/or sample preparation using solid phase extraction (SPE) techniques.
- Experience with The NELAC Institute Standards and/or ISO 17025 as it pertains to certified testing.
- Experience in compliance testing and federal, state and local requirements, regulations or laws as related to potable and non-potable water testing, including PFAS and pesticide residue testing.
- Experience in writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and/or grant applications..
Special Instructions
The online state application must contain all required information and fully respond to questions to be considered for this job opportunity. Please be sure that all of your relevant qualifications and considerations are specifically addressed in your submitted application.
This position has regulatory requirements that necessitate certain qualifications, outlined in the information provided above. If you intend to utilize education to meet these requirements, you must submit an unofficial transcript with your application, including a conferral date.
Online applications should be submitted via jobs.virginia.gov.
Fax, e-mail, or mail applications will not be accepted. For assistance or computer access, please visit your local Virginia Employment Office or contact our office jobs@dgs.virginia.gov or 804-786-3910.
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application has been successfully submitted. Applications will continue to be accepted until a suitable pool of candidates is received, but this position may be closed at any time after November 6, 2026. Please refer to the “Your Application” page in your account to check the status of your application for this position. Applicants in need of accommodation during the application and/or interview process may contact DGS at 804-786-3910 for assistance.
Visa sponsorship will not be provided for this position now or in the future. Confirmation of eligibility to work will be required at time of hire. DGS will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
The selected candidate must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Blood-borne pathogen training will be provided by the employer. To comply with OSHA blood-borne pathogen requirements, DCLS offers the Hepatitis B vaccine.
DCLS employees are designated as essential personnel. This designation requires DCLS employees to report to the workplace or at an assigned remote location during state authorized closings or delays (i.e., weather-related closures/delays, holidays, etc.), unless otherwise instructed by management.
Due to the critical nature of the work performed by the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) and the requirements and responsibilities placed upon DCLS by the Drug Free Workplace Act, Federal Select Agent Program, and DHRM Policy 1.05 Alcohol and other Drugs, it is the policy of DCLS to maintain a workplace that is free from the harmful effects of alcohol or other drugs. The unlawful or unauthorized use of drugs by DCLS employees while at work adversely impacts DCLS’s ability to perform high quality analytical testing services and support for local, state and federal agencies that serve to protect the health, safety and security of the public. As such, DCLS strictly prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, prohibits employees from possessing or using alcohol, marijuana or any controlled substances (including, but not limited to prescription drugs) while in state owned vehicles, in the workplace or on DCLS premises, or when performing official work duties.
Applicants that indicate they have preferential hiring rights in the form of a yellow form or blue card must submit these to our office prior to the closing of the posting, in accordance with DHRM policy 1.30. Please note that only current and former employees of the Commonwealth of Virginia that will be or have been laid off are eligible for preferential hiring rights.
The Virginia Department of General Services is an equal opportunity employer and a proud Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified employer. Individuals from minoritized groups, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and individuals with AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service experience are encouraged to apply.
From July 1, 2026, through January 21, 2029, applicants who were terminated from a position of employment with the federal government on or after January 1, 2025 due to a reduction in the federal budget or initiatives put in place by the federal Department of Government Efficiency may be eligible for HB494 Federal Employee Priority Consideration. Applicants seeking HB494 Federal Employee Priority Consideration must identify themselves within the state application process and provide supporting documentation, including a Standard Form 50 (SF-50), verifying their eligibility.
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Contact Information
Name: DGS Human Resources
Phone: 804-786-3910
Email: jobs@dgs.virginia.gov
- 5114174
- Richmond, Virginia, United States
- Department of General Services
- Agriculture and Animal Health
- Applied Sciences and Natural Resources
- Full-Time (Salaried)
- Department of General Services
Are you an Organic Chemist interested in a fulfilling career with the Commonwealth?
Do you have experience serving as a team leader and developing laboratory methods?
Apply to be a Principal Scientist for Trace Organics & Pesticides!
Title: Principal Scientist (Trace Organics & Pesticides) - CL177
State Role Title: Scientist II
Hiring Range: $89,000 - $102,000
Pay Band: 5
Agency: Department of General Services (DGS)
Location: Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services, Richmond, VA
Agency Website: www.dgs.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
DGS is seeking a Principal Scientist for Trace Organics & Pesticides at the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS). DCLS is is one of the largest and most diverse consolidated state laboratories in the nation. With an annual budget of over 30 million dollars and over 250 state employees, DCLS performs approximately 9 million tests annually. Results from these tests are used confidently by local, state, and federal public health, agriculture, food regulatory, environmental protection, and law enforcement officials serving to protect our citizens, food supply, environment, and commerce. DCLS is a member of several public health networks and emergency response groups.
The Trace Organics & Pesticides Group performs laboratory testing using complex instrumentation (i.e. gas chromatographs, high performance liquid chromatographs, and mass spectrometers) to identify toxic organic compounds in samples such as air, water and soil. Laboratory data generated by DCLS are used by state and federal programs such as the National Air Toxics Trends Stations (NATTS) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), and the Virginia Department of Health to make decisions about air quality, waste discharge, drinking water treatment regulations, landfill operation, fertilizer and pesticide application. Other laboratory testing activities in the Organics group include emergency response testing and consumer protection testing to include formulation and animal remedies testing to ensure accurate product labeling and guarantees stated on the label.
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
- Serves in a lead capacity and technical specialist for the workgroup, including training and reviewing the testing of others. Also serves as back-up Technical Manager for TNI purposes.
- Independently perform high-complexity laboratory testing and analysis with accuracy and efficiency, including performing performing liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and other testing.
- Assures team meets production, turnaround times, quality assurance goals, and objectives are met.
- Designs and leads validations and verifications of new instrumentation and methodologies.
- Provides technical and troubleshooting guidance for laboratory instrumentation and test methods.
- Reviews and revises Standard Operating Procedures.
- Assists Lead Scientists and/or Group Manager in preparing grant applications, tracking grant objectives and progress, and providing routine reports.
- Supports quality assurance efforts by monitoring compliance of group with policies and ensuring training objectives are met.
- Maintains a safe and compliant work environment by following SOPs, safety protocols, and laboratory best practices.
- Provides highly technical consultation to agency users, program managers, laboratory staff, and physicians on the interpretation of analytical results.
This position may also be required to respond to emergency testing requests outside of normal business hours.
This position is located in Richmond, Virginia and must report on-site.
We’ve got great benefits!
DGS offers excellent health benefits at affordable pricing, pre-tax spending accounts, paid life insurance, paid Short- and Long-Term Disability benefits, paid holidays, vacation, and other leave benefits, wellness programs, and a state retirement plan with options for tax-deferred retirement savings including employer matching. Additionally, DGS is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Minimum Qualifications
- Meets the educational and work experience requirements for an Organics Technical Manager as defined by the NELAC Institute (TNI) Standard EL-V1M2-2016-Rev2.1 section 5.2.6.1.
- Experience serving as a team leader, including coordinating, prioritizing, and reviewing the work of others.
- Experience with laboratory method development, including validation/verification procedures.
- Experience performing and documenting interpretations of data and QC to meet quality assurance requirements.
- Comprehensive knowledge and work-related experience with the theory and application of chemical principles.
- Skill in the application, operation, and troubleshooting of complex laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices for the handling of chemical, microbiological, infectious or toxic materials.
- Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to provide written reports of research findings/interpretations, provide formal technical trainings, and consultation to customers relating to specimen submission, specimen testing and/or interpretation of results.
- Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment and plan, organize, and implement independent research projects.
- Good technical skills and strong attention to detail, including the ability to follow procedures, identify errors, and problem-solve.
- Experience and skill working with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Ability to occasionally handle, push, pull, and/or move 50 or more lbs.
- Ability to work occasional after-hours and/or weekends as needed for emergency coverage and workflow..
Visa sponsorship will not be provided for this position now or in the future. Confirmation of eligibility to work will be required at time of hire.
The selected candidate must also pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Additional Considerations
- Experience performing liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS).
- Experience with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) gas chromatography, and/or sample preparation using solid phase extraction (SPE) techniques.
- Experience with The NELAC Institute Standards and/or ISO 17025 as it pertains to certified testing.
- Experience in compliance testing and federal, state and local requirements, regulations or laws as related to potable and non-potable water testing, including PFAS and pesticide residue testing.
- Experience in writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and/or grant applications..
Special Instructions
The online state application must contain all required information and fully respond to questions to be considered for this job opportunity. Please be sure that all of your relevant qualifications and considerations are specifically addressed in your submitted application.
This position has regulatory requirements that necessitate certain qualifications, outlined in the information provided above. If you intend to utilize education to meet these requirements, you must submit an unofficial transcript with your application, including a conferral date.
Online applications should be submitted via jobs.virginia.gov.
Fax, e-mail, or mail applications will not be accepted. For assistance or computer access, please visit your local Virginia Employment Office or contact our office jobs@dgs.virginia.gov or 804-786-3910.
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application has been successfully submitted. Applications will continue to be accepted until a suitable pool of candidates is received, but this position may be closed at any time after November 6, 2026. Please refer to the “Your Application” page in your account to check the status of your application for this position. Applicants in need of accommodation during the application and/or interview process may contact DGS at 804-786-3910 for assistance.
Visa sponsorship will not be provided for this position now or in the future. Confirmation of eligibility to work will be required at time of hire. DGS will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
The selected candidate must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Blood-borne pathogen training will be provided by the employer. To comply with OSHA blood-borne pathogen requirements, DCLS offers the Hepatitis B vaccine.
DCLS employees are designated as essential personnel. This designation requires DCLS employees to report to the workplace or at an assigned remote location during state authorized closings or delays (i.e., weather-related closures/delays, holidays, etc.), unless otherwise instructed by management.
Due to the critical nature of the work performed by the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) and the requirements and responsibilities placed upon DCLS by the Drug Free Workplace Act, Federal Select Agent Program, and DHRM Policy 1.05 Alcohol and other Drugs, it is the policy of DCLS to maintain a workplace that is free from the harmful effects of alcohol or other drugs. The unlawful or unauthorized use of drugs by DCLS employees while at work adversely impacts DCLS’s ability to perform high quality analytical testing services and support for local, state and federal agencies that serve to protect the health, safety and security of the public. As such, DCLS strictly prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs, prohibits employees from possessing or using alcohol, marijuana or any controlled substances (including, but not limited to prescription drugs) while in state owned vehicles, in the workplace or on DCLS premises, or when performing official work duties.
Applicants that indicate they have preferential hiring rights in the form of a yellow form or blue card must submit these to our office prior to the closing of the posting, in accordance with DHRM policy 1.30. Please note that only current and former employees of the Commonwealth of Virginia that will be or have been laid off are eligible for preferential hiring rights.
The Virginia Department of General Services is an equal opportunity employer and a proud Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified employer. Individuals from minoritized groups, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and individuals with AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service experience are encouraged to apply.
From July 1, 2026, through January 21, 2029, applicants who were terminated from a position of employment with the federal government on or after January 1, 2025 due to a reduction in the federal budget or initiatives put in place by the federal Department of Government Efficiency may be eligible for HB494 Federal Employee Priority Consideration. Applicants seeking HB494 Federal Employee Priority Consideration must identify themselves within the state application process and provide supporting documentation, including a Standard Form 50 (SF-50), verifying their eligibility.
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Contact Information
Name: DGS Human Resources
Phone: 804-786-3910
Email: jobs@dgs.virginia.gov
See All 32 Principal Scientist Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Principal Scientist JobsPrincipal Scientist Jobs by City in Virginia
Where Virginia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Principal Scientist Job Market in Virginia
A snapshot from current Virginia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Capital One11
- Information Technology Senior Management Forum7
- Department of General Services2
- RTX1
- Altria1
Top Industries Hiring
- Banking & Financial Services
What Virginia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in principal scientist jobs across Virginia.
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or biomedical engineering
- Minimum five years of independent research experience in an industry or government laboratory setting
- Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publication or patent authorship in the scientific field
- Active or clearable federal security clearance, required by many Virginia defense-sector employers
- Proficiency in scientific computing tools and statistical software used in the specialty area
- Experience leading cross-functional research teams and mentoring junior scientists or research staff
Principal Scientist Jobs in Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a principal scientist in Virginia?
Reaching a principal scientist role in Virginia typically requires a doctoral degree in a natural or physical science, engineering, or a closely related field, followed by several years of progressively independent research experience. Virginia does not issue a state-specific license for most principal scientist roles, but defense-sector positions often require a federal security clearance processed through a Virginia-based facility. Candidates in clinical or environmental science may also need discipline-specific certifications recognized by their respective professional boards.
Which companies hire principal scientists in Virginia?
Employers hiring principal scientists in Virginia right now include Capital One, Information Technology Senior Management Forum, and Department of General Services, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Virginia's dense concentration of federal agencies, defense contractors, and research hospitals means that both large-scale government contractors and health system research divisions are among the most consistent sources of principal scientist openings in the state.
Which Virginia cities have the most principal scientist jobs?
The Virginia cities with the most principal scientist openings are McLean, Richmond, and Reston. Northern Virginia leads because of its proximity to federal agencies, national laboratories, and major defense and intelligence contractors headquartered in that corridor, while Richmond's presence reflects the region's expanding pharmaceutical and health sciences research sector, and Hampton Roads draws from Navy and defense research activity concentrated there.
Are there remote principal scientist jobs in Virginia?
Yes, but they are less common than in purely desk-based fields, since principal scientist work frequently involves laboratory access, instrumentation, or on-site collaboration with research teams. About 50% of principal scientist openings tied to Virginia are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and the roles most likely to be fully remote tend to be in computational modeling, data science, or regulatory and scientific writing functions rather than bench or experimental research.
How can I get hired as a principal scientist in Virginia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a postdoctoral research position, which large Virginia employers such as Inova, the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, and major Northern Virginia defense contractors regularly offer to recent doctoral graduates. From there, candidates typically move into associate or staff scientist roles before advancing. Building a publication record, contributing to open-source scientific software, or obtaining a security clearance while in a junior position significantly strengthens a candidate's profile for Virginia's defense-heavy market.
Where can I find and apply to principal scientist jobs in Virginia?
You can find and apply to principal scientist jobs in Virginia on Migrate Mate, which lists current Virginia openings across defense, biotech, pharmaceutical, and health research sectors. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers through the listings.
See All 32 Principal Scientist Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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