Associate Scientist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Associate scientist roles are commonly sponsored through H-1B visas, especially in pharma, biotech, and chemical companies. Employers like Pfizer, Merck, Genentech, and smaller biotech startups regularly file H-1B visa petitions for these positions. A bachelor's or master's in a relevant science field is usually sufficient, and the specialty occupation argument is straightforward. Many associate scientists also transition to green cards through EB-2 or EB-3 employer sponsorship relatively smoothly. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Fate Therapeutics is seeking a motivated Associate Scientist to join the Quality Control (QC) team. As an individual contributor in the QC laboratory, the successful candidate will focus primarily on molecular assay execution, including digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), and DNA/RNA extraction. The Associate Scientist, Quality Control will also cross-train in and perform flow cytometry and cell-based potency methods, building a broad technical skill set across multiple platforms. In addition, this role will contribute to routine laboratory investigations, quality event resolution, continuous improvement initiatives, and general laboratory operations, offering meaningful opportunities to shape how the lab runs. This is a full-time, exempt position located at our corporate headquarters in San Diego, CA.
Responsibilities
- Perform in-process control, lot release, and stability testing using ddPCR, flow cytometry, and/or cell-based potency assays.
- Execute processes that support sample receipt and processing for release/stability samples for testing and retains.
- Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant execution of assigned testing, laboratory activities, and project deliverables in accordance with approved procedures and applicable quality requirements.
- Draft, revise, and maintain analytical test methods or equipment SOPs, raw material specifications, and/or sampling plans.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to support new product introduction, analytical method development and optimization, and method qualification or validation activities.
- Participate and lead cross-functional training efforts.
- Support the execution, documentation, and resolution of laboratory investigations, deviations, CAPAs, and other quality events through scientific evaluation, data analysis, and root cause assessment.
- Identify, recommend, and implement continuous improvement opportunities to enhance QC laboratory processes, analytical performance, data quality, and operational efficiency.
- Onboard and support validation, qualification, and maintenance of new equipment, partnering with Facilities to complete and maintain equipment lifecycle documentation.
- Assist with the implementation, optimization, and troubleshooting of analytical methodologies and associated instrumentation, particularly molecular assays and nucleic acid extraction workflows.
- Participate in technical transfer, qualification, and validation protocols for QC assays including protocol execution, data analysis and documentation.
- Onboard new materials and reagents and track qualification of reagents and assay controls.
- Perform technical review of analytical data and associated documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, traceability, and compliance with applicable procedures and quality standards.
- Maintain laboratory readiness through routine laboratory upkeep, including inventory management, reagent and consumable organization, equipment readiness, and general housekeeping in accordance with applicable safety and quality requirements.
- Apply critical thinking, sound scientific judgment, and a data-driven approach to troubleshoot assay performance, evaluate unexpected results, and support timely resolution of laboratory and quality issues.
QUALIFICATIONS
- M.S. or B.S. degree in a scientific discipline with minimum of 5+ years of biotechnology, clinical, or pharmaceutical laboratory experience is required.
- Prior experience working in a regulated environment (e.g., GMP, GLP, or CLIA) is highly preferred.
- Hands on experimental skills with qPCR, ddPCR is required, additional competency in flow cytometry, ELISA or cell-based assays is preferred.
- Proficiency with aseptic techniques for working with cell culture, human blood, and blood products is desired.
- Strong scientific, analytical, problem solving, and communication skills as well as sound judgment, with the ability to work both independently and effectively with others.
- Highly organized, detail oriented with excellent record keeping abilities, and computer proficiency.
- Ability to work independently in a high paced team environment, to prioritize activities from multiple projects with little supervision.
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Subject to extended periods of sitting and standing, vision to monitor, and moderate noise levels.
- Will require working with cells and cell lines of human and/or animal origin.
- Will require working with hazardous materials.
- May require work in controlled and cGMP Manufacturing environments requiring special gowning.
COMPENSATION
- The salary offer will be based on a variety of factors, including level, experience, qualifications, internal equity, and location.
- Fate offers a competitive employment package that includes an annual bonus, equity, and a generous benefits package.
- The anticipated salary range for this role is $105,000 - $115,000. The preceding job description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. Additional and incidental duties related to the primary duties may be required from time to time.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Fate Therapeutics, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Privacy Notice
To learn about how Fate collects and uses job application information, please visit Fate's online Privacy Notice.
About Fate Therapeutics, Inc.
Fate Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to bringing a pipeline of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cellular immunotherapies to patients. Using its proprietary iPSC product platform, the Company has established a leadership position in creating multiplexed-engineered master iPSC lines and in the manufacture and clinical development of off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived cell products. The Company’s pipeline includes iPSC-derived T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell product candidates, which are selectively designed, incorporate novel synthetic controls of cell function, and are intended to deliver multiple therapeutic mechanisms to patients. Fate Therapeutics is headquartered in San Diego, CA.
⚠️ Recruitment Fraud Alert
Recently, we have been made aware of unauthorized individuals falsely presenting themselves as Fate Therapeutics employees or recruiters as part of online scams or phishing attempts. Impersonators may use the Fate Therapeutics name and logo, as well as employee names and job titles, to gain a job seeker’s personal or banking information or to request payment as a condition of being considered for a position at the company. Fate Therapeutics and its employees are not involved in these scams. Here are a few things to be aware of to help identify recruitment fraud:
- Our Talent Acquisition team only corresponds from our @fatetherapeutics.com domain.
- At no stage in our hiring process will we require payment or ask you to make deposits in your bank account.
- We will only ask for personal information when applying for a position via our Careers page or thereafter.
- At no stage during our hiring process will we ask you to click a link to begin a one-way video interview.
- We do not use Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, or other third-party messaging platforms to recruit candidates or conduct interviews. Please exercise caution. If something feels off about your interactions, we encourage you to contact us at [email protected] to confirm the authenticity of the message. Your security is important to us, and we appreciate your vigilance.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
INTRODUCTION
Fate Therapeutics is seeking a motivated Associate Scientist to join the Quality Control (QC) team. As an individual contributor in the QC laboratory, the successful candidate will focus primarily on molecular assay execution, including digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), and DNA/RNA extraction. The Associate Scientist, Quality Control will also cross-train in and perform flow cytometry and cell-based potency methods, building a broad technical skill set across multiple platforms. In addition, this role will contribute to routine laboratory investigations, quality event resolution, continuous improvement initiatives, and general laboratory operations, offering meaningful opportunities to shape how the lab runs. This is a full-time, exempt position located at our corporate headquarters in San Diego, CA.
Responsibilities
- Perform in-process control, lot release, and stability testing using ddPCR, flow cytometry, and/or cell-based potency assays.
- Execute processes that support sample receipt and processing for release/stability samples for testing and retains.
- Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant execution of assigned testing, laboratory activities, and project deliverables in accordance with approved procedures and applicable quality requirements.
- Draft, revise, and maintain analytical test methods or equipment SOPs, raw material specifications, and/or sampling plans.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to support new product introduction, analytical method development and optimization, and method qualification or validation activities.
- Participate and lead cross-functional training efforts.
- Support the execution, documentation, and resolution of laboratory investigations, deviations, CAPAs, and other quality events through scientific evaluation, data analysis, and root cause assessment.
- Identify, recommend, and implement continuous improvement opportunities to enhance QC laboratory processes, analytical performance, data quality, and operational efficiency.
- Onboard and support validation, qualification, and maintenance of new equipment, partnering with Facilities to complete and maintain equipment lifecycle documentation.
- Assist with the implementation, optimization, and troubleshooting of analytical methodologies and associated instrumentation, particularly molecular assays and nucleic acid extraction workflows.
- Participate in technical transfer, qualification, and validation protocols for QC assays including protocol execution, data analysis and documentation.
- Onboard new materials and reagents and track qualification of reagents and assay controls.
- Perform technical review of analytical data and associated documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, traceability, and compliance with applicable procedures and quality standards.
- Maintain laboratory readiness through routine laboratory upkeep, including inventory management, reagent and consumable organization, equipment readiness, and general housekeeping in accordance with applicable safety and quality requirements.
- Apply critical thinking, sound scientific judgment, and a data-driven approach to troubleshoot assay performance, evaluate unexpected results, and support timely resolution of laboratory and quality issues.
QUALIFICATIONS
- M.S. or B.S. degree in a scientific discipline with minimum of 5+ years of biotechnology, clinical, or pharmaceutical laboratory experience is required.
- Prior experience working in a regulated environment (e.g., GMP, GLP, or CLIA) is highly preferred.
- Hands on experimental skills with qPCR, ddPCR is required, additional competency in flow cytometry, ELISA or cell-based assays is preferred.
- Proficiency with aseptic techniques for working with cell culture, human blood, and blood products is desired.
- Strong scientific, analytical, problem solving, and communication skills as well as sound judgment, with the ability to work both independently and effectively with others.
- Highly organized, detail oriented with excellent record keeping abilities, and computer proficiency.
- Ability to work independently in a high paced team environment, to prioritize activities from multiple projects with little supervision.
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Subject to extended periods of sitting and standing, vision to monitor, and moderate noise levels.
- Will require working with cells and cell lines of human and/or animal origin.
- Will require working with hazardous materials.
- May require work in controlled and cGMP Manufacturing environments requiring special gowning.
COMPENSATION
- The salary offer will be based on a variety of factors, including level, experience, qualifications, internal equity, and location.
- Fate offers a competitive employment package that includes an annual bonus, equity, and a generous benefits package.
- The anticipated salary range for this role is $105,000 - $115,000. The preceding job description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. Additional and incidental duties related to the primary duties may be required from time to time.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Fate Therapeutics, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Privacy Notice
To learn about how Fate collects and uses job application information, please visit Fate's online Privacy Notice.
About Fate Therapeutics, Inc.
Fate Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to bringing a pipeline of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cellular immunotherapies to patients. Using its proprietary iPSC product platform, the Company has established a leadership position in creating multiplexed-engineered master iPSC lines and in the manufacture and clinical development of off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived cell products. The Company’s pipeline includes iPSC-derived T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell product candidates, which are selectively designed, incorporate novel synthetic controls of cell function, and are intended to deliver multiple therapeutic mechanisms to patients. Fate Therapeutics is headquartered in San Diego, CA.
⚠️ Recruitment Fraud Alert
Recently, we have been made aware of unauthorized individuals falsely presenting themselves as Fate Therapeutics employees or recruiters as part of online scams or phishing attempts. Impersonators may use the Fate Therapeutics name and logo, as well as employee names and job titles, to gain a job seeker’s personal or banking information or to request payment as a condition of being considered for a position at the company. Fate Therapeutics and its employees are not involved in these scams. Here are a few things to be aware of to help identify recruitment fraud:
- Our Talent Acquisition team only corresponds from our @fatetherapeutics.com domain.
- At no stage in our hiring process will we require payment or ask you to make deposits in your bank account.
- We will only ask for personal information when applying for a position via our Careers page or thereafter.
- At no stage during our hiring process will we ask you to click a link to begin a one-way video interview.
- We do not use Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, or other third-party messaging platforms to recruit candidates or conduct interviews. Please exercise caution. If something feels off about your interactions, we encourage you to contact us at [email protected] to confirm the authenticity of the message. Your security is important to us, and we appreciate your vigilance.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
See all 1,541+ Associate Scientist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Associate Scientist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an Associate Scientist
Target large pharma companies with structured sponsorship programs
Companies like Pfizer, Merck, Johnson & Johnson, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Eli Lilly have established immigration processes for associate scientist hires. Their legal teams handle hundreds of H-1B petitions annually, which means fewer surprises and a more reliable process.
Gain GMP and regulated environment experience
Pharmaceutical companies need associate scientists who understand Good Manufacturing Practice and FDA compliance. Documenting your experience with SOPs, batch records, and quality systems makes you significantly more attractive to employers in regulated settings.
Relocate to major pharma hubs for concentrated opportunities
The highest concentration of associate scientist positions is in the Boston-Cambridge area, New Jersey, the San Francisco Bay Area, and the Philadelphia-Delaware Valley corridor. Being in these regions gives you access to the densest cluster of pharmaceutical and biotech employers.
Use STEM OPT to transition from academic to industry science
If you completed a STEM degree at a U.S. university, your 36 months of OPT authorization give you time to gain the industry lab experience that pharma companies value. Employers are more confident sponsoring someone who has already adapted to their workflows and regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an associate scientist role and which companies use this title?
Associate scientist is an entry-to-mid-level laboratory position common in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Companies like Pfizer, Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck, AbbVie, and Takeda use this title for scientists performing bench research, assay development, and analytical testing. The role typically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a life science discipline.
Do pharmaceutical companies sponsor associate scientists for H-1B visas?
Yes, large pharmaceutical companies regularly sponsor H-1B visas for associate scientist positions. The role clearly meets specialty occupation criteria because it requires specialized knowledge in areas like cell biology, biochemistry, or analytical chemistry. Having a master's degree or relevant industry experience strengthens the petition.
How to find Associate Scientist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Associate Scientist positions with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, and research institutions that commonly hire Associate Scientists on H-1B, O-1 visa, or EB-2 visas. These organizations frequently sponsor international talent for roles in drug development, clinical research, and laboratory sciences.
Can I advance from associate scientist to senior scientist on the same visa?
Internal promotions at the same employer generally do not require a new H-1B petition if the job duties remain substantially similar. However, a significant change in duties or a move to a materially different role may require an amended petition. Most pharma companies handle these transitions through their immigration legal teams.
What lab skills make associate scientist candidates more competitive for sponsorship?
Proficiency in techniques directly relevant to drug development - such as HPLC, mass spectrometry, cell culture, ELISA, PCR, and flow cytometry - makes you harder to replace and strengthens the employer's business case for sponsorship. Experience with GMP or GLP documentation is also highly valued in regulated pharmaceutical environments.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Associate Scientist jobs?
When a U.S. employer sponsors a foreign worker for a work visa, they are legally required to pay at least the "prevailing wage" — the average wage paid to workers in the same occupation, in the same geographic area, with similar experience. This is set by the Department of Labor to prevent employers from hiring foreign workers at below-market rates. The prevailing wage varies significantly by role, location, and experience level — for example, a associate scientist in California will have a different prevailing wage than the same role in a smaller state. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search.