BioSafety Lab Specialist

The Global Respiratory Viruses Branch (GRVB) at the Center for Outbreak Response and Vaccine Development (CORVD) is seeking a highly motivated Biosafety Laboratory Specialist to support respiratory virus surveillance, diagnostic assay development, and laboratory quality management. This role involves working in a molecular diagnostics environment with a strong focus on biosafety, laboratory operations, and public health preparedness.

This position offers early-career professionals a chance to contribute to national and global responses to viral respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and other vaccine-preventable pathogens.

Requires NACI Public Trust or the ability to obtain one.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Biosafety Laboratory Specialist: Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Biosafety Laboratory Specialist Responsibilities Include:

• Laboratory Diagnostics & Assay Development
  
  • Perform molecular assays (e.g., PCR, RT-PCR) to detect, type, and characterize respiratory viruses and vaccine-preventable viral pathogens.
  • Support the design, evaluation, and validation of diagnostic platforms for the detection of emerging and endemic respiratory viruses.
  • Assist in the distribution and implementation of standardized diagnostic protocols across surveillance networks.
• Research Support
  
  • Contribute to burden of disease and etiology studies, including sample processing and molecular characterization to investigate virus-disease associations.
  • Collaborate with epidemiologists and laboratorians on multi-disciplinary public health research projects.
• Biosafety & Quality Management
  
  • Adhere to biosafety protocols and maintain medical clearance, including compliance with respirator fit testing and relevant PPE use.
  • Work within regulatory guidelines (e.g., CMS, CAP) to ensure compliance and laboratory readiness for inspections.
  • Support laboratory quality management systems (QMS) and promote safe handling, processing, and storage of specimens.
• Documentation & Reporting
  
  • Draft and maintain SOPs, worksheets, job aids, validation plans, and validation reports in compliance with laboratory standards.
  • Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records for research and surveillance activities.
  • Assist in the preparation for internal and external audits, ensuring documentation and procedures meet quality standards.
• Scientific Communication
  
  • Attend and contribute to weekly laboratory and team meetings, providing updates on assigned activities.
  • Contribute to the preparation of abstracts, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts related to surveillance and research work.
  • Present scientific findings at national and international conferences, as opportunities arise.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Biosafety Laboratory Specialist Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

• Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Laboratory Science, or a related field.
• 1-3+ years of experience working in a clinical, research, or public health laboratory, preferably with molecular diagnostic techniques.
• Familiarity with PCR/RT-PCR, viral RNA/DNA handling, and nucleic acid extraction techniques.
• Understanding of laboratory biosafety protocols and specimen handling standards.
• Ability to draft and follow SOPs and maintain laboratory notebooks and documentation in accordance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow regulatory guidelines.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in CLIA-, CMS-, or CAP-regulated laboratories.
  • Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and quality control practices.
  • Experience with data entry and reporting tools, LIMS systems, or molecular diagnostic software platforms.
  • Interest or experience in presenting scientific research or contributing to publications.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Operation Solutions (CNOS) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNOS, visit cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Keywords:

Molecular diagnostics

Biosafety and quality management

Respiratory virus surveillance

PCR and RT-PCR techniques

Laboratory quality systems (QMS)

Similar job titles:

Molecular Laboratory Technologist

Biosafety Officer

Public Health Laboratory Scientist

Diagnostic Virology Specialist

Laboratory Quality Assurance Analyst

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Please Note: This position is pending a contract award. If you are interested in a future with Cherokee Federal, APPLY TODAY! Although this is not an approved position, we are accepting applications for this future and anticipated need.