Process Associate 1

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Process Associate I (PA-I) within the Process Development - Reagents team (PDO-RGT) works under the guidance of the Reagents QC Development Manager and collaboratively with Scientists within the team to modify existing methods and/or develop and optimize new QC methods to support routine lot release of reagents and kits used in the CLIA laboratory for molecular and genetic based tests. The Process Associate works hands on at the bench to carry out experiments and studies to support bio-chemical verification and validation efforts. The PA-I also supports investigation efforts required for resolving reagent preparation and qualification issues that arise for the CLIA lab.  The PA-I works hands-on to carry out experiments and studies with moderate guidance to support process improvement and technical transfer efforts.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Executes QC assay development studies and other experiments hands on in the laboratory
• Interacts with Scientists, Research and Process Associates, and Automation Engineers and works as a team.
• Produces and documents competent, reproducible results to a high technical standard.
• Revises SOPs, summarize data in spreadsheets, graphs, and presentations.
• Maintains accurate and well-organized laboratory records, worksheets, and notebooks.
• Isolates human plasma, nucleic acid extraction, sample preparation, and PCR for NGS, Sanger Sequencing, and Capillary Electrophoresis.
• Analyzes data and prepares documentation for QC method validation, revise QC testing SOPs and reports to ensure the successful implementation of assays in the laboratory.
• Provides input for technical transfer of new product QC methods from Research and Development into Operations, addressing process development needs for implementation.
• Participates in troubleshooting efforts.
• Builds rapport with end-users, lab supervisors, and process owners and work collaboratively within cross functional teams.
• This role works with PHI on a regular basis both in paper and electronic form and have an access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job.
• Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire.
• Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements.

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QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics, or equivalent
• 0- 2 years of experience as a Research Associate or equivalent in Industry

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Data analysis skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Strong and effective communication skills, including revising protocols and summarizing results in a report or presentation.
• Hand-on laboratory experience, particularly in reagent preparation and qualification assay development.
• Understanding of essential molecular biology methods such as PCR, nucleic acid purification, gel electrophoresis, analysis tools and instrumentation, DNA quantitation, and quality control are required.
• Experience with automated liquid handlers is a plus
• Experience with development and optimization of NGS for diagnostic assays in a CLIA or FDA regulated laboratory environments is a plus.

The pay range is listed and actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.San Carlos, CA $1—$1 USD

OUR OPPORTUNITY

Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women’s health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.

The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world-class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other. When you join Natera, you’ll work hard and grow quickly. Working alongside the elite of the industry, you’ll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.

WHAT WE OFFER

Competitive Benefits - Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and