Scientific Recruiter (Boutique)

Overview

Responsibilities

• Identify and engage doctoral and executive-level scientific talent through proactive headhunting and networking.
• Conduct technical screening interviews to assess the specialized skills and research backgrounds of potential candidates.
• Manage the full recruitment lifecycle from initial client consultation to the final negotiation of employment offers.
• Advise client organizations on market trends, salary benchmarks, and competitive hiring strategies within the life sciences.
• Cultivate long-term relationships with research institutions and industry professionals to maintain a robust talent network.
• Draft detailed candidate profiles that highlight technical competencies and cultural alignment for hiring managers.
• Coordinate complex interview schedules involving multiple stakeholders across different time zones or laboratory environments.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in a life science discipline such as biology, chemistry, or biotechnology is typically required.
• Minimum of five years of experience in recruitment or talent acquisition with a focus on technical or scientific roles.
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory terminology, research methodologies, and industry-specific regulatory standards.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to manage high-value professional contracts.
• Proficiency in using applicant tracking systems and professional networking platforms to source niche talent.

Nice to have

• A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a scientific field which provides deeper credibility with senior research candidates.
• Existing network of contacts within the regional or global biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Previous experience working within a laboratory or clinical research environment.
• Certification in professional recruitment or human resources management.

Work environment

• Work is typically performed in a professional office or home-office setting with frequent video conferencing and digital communication.
• Travel to scientific conferences and client laboratory sites is occasionally required to build industry presence.
• The culture is often fast-paced and performance-driven, measured by successful placements and client satisfaction.
• Collaboration occurs within small teams of researchers and account managers to ensure alignment on search criteria.

Benefits & growth

• Compensation often includes a base salary supplemented by significant performance-based commission or placement bonuses.
• Career progression typically leads to Senior Recruiter, Account Manager, or Principal Consultant roles within the firm.
• Professional development opportunities often include attendance at major industry trade shows and scientific symposia.
• Experienced recruiters may eventually transition into corporate internal talent leadership or boutique firm partnership.