Associate Scientist, Quality

Associate Scientist, Quality

When joining Perkin Elmer, you select an experienced and trusted leader in scientific solutions, with the support of a global service network and distribution centers, providing the right solution, at the right time, to meet critical customer needs. With over an 80+ year legacy of advancing science and a mission of innovating for a healthier world, our dedicated team collaborates closely with commercial, government, academic and healthcare customers to deliver our broad portfolio of analytical solutions, and One Source services.

Location(s):
Altria (East Jackson St, Richmond) - Customer Site VA

Job Description

Summary:

The Associate Scientist, Quality supports quality assurance and quality control operations for the insourced laboratory team as part of an End-to-End (E2E) Laboratory Modernization Program. Depending on assignment, this role concentrates in one or more of the following areas: CAPA and non-conformance management, document control, metrology and equipment calibration, records management and digitization, or personnel training and qualification. Because these functions operate as a single Quality team, staff routinely support one another across these areas as workload requires.

This role operates within an ISO 17025 accredited analytical production laboratory at a client site. This is an entry-level position: the Scientist performs the activities above under direct supervision while developing foundational technical proficiency.

Job Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and manage CAPA activities associated with laboratory deviations, non-conformances, audit findings, and customer observations; lead or support root cause investigations using established quality methodologies.
• Maintain controlled documents, including SOPs, work instructions, forms, and quality records, and coordinate revisions, approvals, archival, and retention requirements.
• Coordinate calibration and maintenance activities for laboratory instrumentation, maintain equipment qualification and calibration records, and ensure measurement traceability.
• Perform scanning, indexing, and electronic filing of laboratory records and quality documents; support records retrieval and archival activities.
• Coordinate laboratory training programs, maintain training records, and support onboarding, qualification, and competency assessments for laboratory personnel.
• Track CAPA records, calibration schedules, and training compliance to ensure timely completion and effectiveness.
• Review documentation for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with quality requirements across CAPA, document control, metrology, records, and training activities.
• Support internal and external audits, inspection readiness, and regulatory compliance activities across all quality functions.
• Facilitate cross-functional discussions involving laboratory personnel, quality representatives, and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities to improve quality systems and streamline processes across CAPA, document control, metrology, records management, and training.
• Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.

Critical

Skills:

• Strong understanding of CAPA principles, deviation management, and root cause analysis techniques.
• Knowledge of document control, records management, and metrology/calibration program requirements.
• Ability to coordinate training programs and competency assessments.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 quality systems and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent organizational skills, technical writing, and documentation review capabilities.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity principles.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or related scientific discipline with 0–2 years of relevant experience.
• OR Associate degree with 2+ years of relevant quality or laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively under close to direct supervision in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and capable of following detailed instructions and completing routine tasks.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience managing CAPA systems and non-conformance investigations, including root cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience supporting document control systems, records management, and electronic document/records platforms.
• Experience coordinating calibration and equipment maintenance programs; familiarity with metrology software and asset management systems.
• Experience developing or coordinating training programs and maintaining competency/qualification records; familiarity with learning management systems.
• Experience with in ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, or FDA-regulated environments.
• Familiarity with LIMS and electronic documentation platforms.

Working Environment:

• Must be able to work in a laboratory, controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses,…