The Lead Automation Engineer is a highly experienced engineer with expertise in the development and implementation of complex laboratory automation and integrated systems. They can work independently to conceptualize, design, develop and implement automated solutions for robust, reliable performance of NGS and supporting assays. They have the experience to apply knowledge from one automation technology or workflow to other types of projects or platforms. This development includes standalone instruments and integrated systems. They can work together with cross-functional teams of scientists, engineers, and software engineers to deliver these automated platforms. In addition, they can provide high-level support for any of the processes they develop - both at an instrument and an assay results level. This engineer can perform their role independently, and will find themselves leading small to medium size teams in larger overall projects. They lead both by example and by word - providing prioritizations and strategic direction to teams they are a part of and to individuals they interact with.

This role will specifically support a RUO (Research Use Only) group at Natera. Automation and RUO have a close working relationship and the ideal candidate will be able to build rapport with the team, gather requirements and execute development and testing. Hamilton experience is a plus.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, closely related scientific field or equivalent.
• 6+ years of experience in laboratory automation engineering.
• Technical expertise and experience in automation and systems development and integration in the life sciences industry; especially with robotics and liquid handling systems. Capability of evaluating new technologies for reliability, robsutness and usefulness.
• Background in NGS laboratories is a plus, as is background in clinical laboratories.
• Experience in software programming and data handling (including database work) is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills required.
• Excellent problem solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, as well as strong presentation skills.
• Flexibility to support several simultaneous projects.
• Developing leadership skills.

Compensation & Total Rewards

This range reflects a good-faith estimate of the base pay we reasonably expect to offer at the time of hire. Final compensation will vary based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.

This position is also eligible for additional compensation and benefits through Natera’s robust Total Rewards program, including:

Annual performance incentive bonus

Long-term equity awards

Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)

401(k) with company match

Generous paid time off and company holidays

Additional wellness and work-life benefits

Compensation Range $152,000—$189,950 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 their dependents. Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits. Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more. We also offer a generous employee referral program!

For more information, visit www.natera.com.

Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, and welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities and perspectives. Inclusive collaboration benefits our employees, our community and our patients, and is critical to our mission of changing the management of disease worldwide.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with applicable laws.

*If you are based in California, we encourage you to read this important information for California residents. *

Link: https://www.natera.com/notice-of-data-collection-california-residents/

Please be advised that Natera will reach out to candidates with a @natera.com email domain ONLY. Email communications from all other domain names are not from Natera or its employees and are fraudulent. Natera does not request interviews via text messages and does not ask for personal information until a candidate has engaged with the company and has spoken to a recruiter and the hiring team. Natera takes cyber crimes seriously, and will collaborate with law enforcement authorities to prosecute any related cyber crimes.

For more information:

• BBB announcement on job scams
• FBI Cyber Crime resource page