Laboratory Technician, Virology, Frederick, MD

Laboratory Technician, Virology

Frederick, MD, United States (On-site)

This position requires an active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a Secret clearance to be considered.

Position Summary:

Research Technical Support III assists the Viral Pathogenesis Branch (VPB) in conducting laboratory experiments and managing research activities in Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2), Level 3 (BSL-3), and Level 4 (BSL-4) laboratories. This role involves working with controlled substances, executing scientific studies, and maintaining laboratory and equipment standards. A Research Technical Support III is responsible for conducting various laboratory tests, experiments, and analyses. They follow established protocols and procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results. They may operate and maintain laboratory equipment, prepare samples, perform data entry and analysis, and assist with report generation. Research Technical Support III may also provide guidance and training to junior technicians or support staff. They are expected to adhere to safety guidelines, maintain cleanliness in the laboratory, and contribute to the overall efficiency of the laboratory operations. Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team are essential for success in this role.

Compensation & Benefits:

Starting Salary Range for Laboratory Technician, Virology: $60,000 – $65,000

Benefits That Set Us Apart

When considering your next opportunity, compensation is only part of the picture. We offer a benefits package designed to invest in your future and support your life outside of work.

Highlights include:

• Up to a 6% 401(k) company match to help you build long-term financial security

• Paid time off as part of our comprehensive benefits package, so you have the flexibility to rest, recharge, and enjoy what matters most

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus prescription drug coverage

• Basic life and AD&D insurance, with supplemental life options

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Paid holidays

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

• Professional development, training, and certification support

• Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, and identity theft protection

Because taking care of our employees isn’t just a promise, it’s part of who we are.

Benefits are subject to change and eligibility requirements apply.

Essential Functions, Duties & Responsibilities:

Includes the following:

• Support Non-human Primate (NHP), swine, and rodent studies by preparing study materials, conducting virus inoculations, performing laboratory analyses such as Complete Blood Count (CBC) and chemistries, and processing samples.

• Conduct testing of vaccines and therapeutic compounds against various viruses using established laboratory procedures.

• Perform immunological procedures such as ELISA and Western Blot assays.

• Conduct cell culture, plaque assays, PCR, and other molecular biology techniques to support research.

• Serve as a mentor in BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratories.

• Assess and maintain laboratory supplies, including ordering through the GFEBs system.

• Assist with equipment inventory management and preparation for laboratory inspections.

• Participate in safety inspections and adhere to laboratory biosecurity regulations.

• Maintains the laboratory facility and equipment.

• Perform cleaning, prepare for inspections, and ensure containment standards in laboratories.

• Ensures all experiments are performed and documented in accordance with applicable regulations dictated by the study protocol.

• Submit technical reports as required.

• May require CONUS/OCONUS travel to support studies or present research findings.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No supervisory/management authority

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field or equivalent professional experience.

• Ability to work in a matrixed, team-oriented environment.

• Ability to secure and maintain a security clearance and must maintain BPRP (Biological Personnel Reliability Program) and CS-PRP (Controlled Substances Personnel Reliability Program) statuses as required.

• Proven clinical diagnostics and regulatory laboratory skills.

• Proficient in cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and animal research.

• Ability to provide proof of US citizenship.

• This position requires an active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a Secret clearance to be considered.

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; may occasionally require standing or moving about the office for extended periods.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of experience in a BSL-2, BSL-3, or BSL-4 laboratory environment is preferred.

• Familiarity with GFEBs ordering system is a plus.

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled environment.

Company Information:

Behind every government mission stands skilled, mission-driven talent: people whose expertise and dedication turn complex challenges into successful outcomes. Cherokee Nation Integrated Health, part of Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, is that team. We modernize aging systems, deliver care where it’s needed most, and keep missions supplied, staffed, and moving across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. For more than 60 federal clients, we take on the work others won’t, and deliver where it counts. If that’s the kind of work you’re looking for, you’ve found your team. Learn more at cherokee-federal.com.

#CherokeeFederal #LI-RN2

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

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.

In compliance with Maryland’s Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, the salary range for this position is $60,000 – $65,000 and is available to applicants upon request.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Cherokee Federal is a federal contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). As required by VEVRAA, we take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Protected veterans are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Cherokee Federal takes affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.

Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities or those with sincerely held religious beliefs. To request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at careers@cherokee-federal.com.