New

Scientist

Spectraforce Technologies
United States, California, South San Francisco
Apr 29, 2026
Job Title: Scientist Location: South San Francisco, CA (100% Onsite) Duration: 6 Months (Potential Extension) Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Work Environment: Shared-resource laboratory (BSL-2+) Position Overview We are seeking a highly motivated Flow Cytometry Specialist to support daily cytometry operations in a fast-paced, shared laboratory environment. This role requires strong technical expertise combined with a service-oriented mindset, as the individual will work closely with scientists to ensure successful experiment execution. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with flow cytometry analyzers and cell sorters, including instrument setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and user support. Reliability and punctuality are critical, as instruments must be operational by ~10:00 AM daily. Key Responsibilities Operate and maintain flow cytometry analyzers and cell sorters Perform instrument startup and shutdown procedures Monitor cell sorting runs and ensure optimal performance Conduct routine and monthly maintenance (fluidics, PBS/saline systems) Clean instruments and manage cytometer waste (up to ~25 lbs) Troubleshoot clogs and technical instrument issues Support analyzer-only cytometers Assist scientists in completing experiments successfully Provide hands-on user training and technical guidance Design and optimize multiparameter panels (conventional & spectral) Ensure compliance with BSL-2+ safety standards Proactively engage with lab users to provide support Required Qualifications Education: Doctorate degree OR Master's degree + 2 years of experience OR Bachelor's degree + 4 years of experience Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with flow cytometry Cell sorting setup and operation experience Experience with analyzers and sorters Knowledge of conventional and spectral cytometry Basic troubleshooting of cytometry instruments Multiparameter panel design experience Soft Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work in a collaborative, service-based lab environment Ability to support multiple users in time-sensitive situations Proactive and customer-service-oriented mindset Preferred Experience Experience with instruments such as: BD FACSAria Fusion BD FACSymphony Cytek Aurora Experience training users in a shared-resource lab setting Familiarity with BSL-2+ lab environments Top 3 Must-Have Skills Flow cytometry operation (especially cell sorting) Experience training users in a shared lab environment (BSL-2+) Multiparameter panel design (conventional & full-spectrum) Day-to-Day Activities Start up and calibrate cytometers Monitor and manage multiple sorting instruments Perform quality control and routine maintenance Support users with experiment setup and execution Train lab users on instrument operation and best practices Troubleshoot real-time instrument issues Employee Value Proposition Opportunity to work in a cutting-edge cytometry environment High exposure to diverse scientific projects and researchers Collaborative and dynamic lab setting Interview Process Step 1: Phone Interview Step 2: Onsite Interview with Team Red Flags (Screening Considerations) Lack of experience training or supporting others Frequent job changes without clear justification Inability to explain cytometry concepts clearly Weak understanding of spectral vs. conventional cytometry Poor punctuality or reliability Disinterest in routine/manual lab tasks Additional Notes Strong preference for candidates local to South San Francisco (within ~30-45 minute commute) Role requires consistent onsite presence and morning reliability