Automation Engineer

Location: On-Site in Boulder, CO (Foresight Dx business unit, a Natera company)

Foresight Diagnostics is a molecular diagnostics company pioneering non-invasive cancer detection through highly sensitive, cell-free DNA-based liquid biopsy technologies. Our proprietary methods - originally developed at Stanford University - are designed to detect smaller tumors earlier and enable more personalized treatment strategies for patients with cancer. 

We sit at the intersection of molecular biology, bioinformatics, and next-generation sequencing (NGS), and we translate rigorous science into clinically meaningful solutions. Following our acquisition by Natera, we now combine the agility of a mission-driven startup with the scale and resources of a global leader in cell-free DNA testing. It’s an exciting moment to join us. 

Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, our team operates in a high accountability, collaborative environment where quality and continuous improvement aren’t just values - they’re how we work every day.

About The Role

The Clinical Lab Supervisor is a leader in Natera's lab operations whose role is to oversee employees' performance and serve as a liaison between employees and senior management to meet company goals and quality objectives. The supervisor is responsible for daily supervision of lab staff performing duties such as laboratory testing and data review. Duties include but are not limited to coaching, motivating, staffing, evaluating, and training staff. The supervisor works closely with the manager to ensure company and team goals are met while adhering to good manufacturing practices and CLIA/CAP guidelines.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Automation Engineer within the Process Engineering Group contributes to the development and implementation of automation systems and workflows to support the processing of samples in a clinical diagnostics laboratory environment.  This individual collaborates with a team of scientists and engineers on projects to conceptualize, design, develop, and implement solutions designed to optimize the performance and increase the efficiencies of the laboratory processes.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Program liquid handling robots
• Build rapport with end-users, and coordinate with cross-functional teams
• Develop and integrate the automation systems and related software tools, preparing the documentation for equipment validation and operating procedures to ensure successful implementation in the labs
• Prepare User Requirement and Testing Procedure, Standard Operating Procedures, and related documentations
• Oversee the functional and validation testing, IQ/OQ/PQ 
• Additional responsibilities include user training, troubleshooting, optimizing the workflows, and on-going support for the end-users

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS degree in Biomedical engineering, closely related scientific field, or equivalent; MS degree preferred
• 2+ years of laboratory automation engineering experience required
• Technical proficiency and experience in automation and systems development and integration for the life science industry; especially with robotics and liquid handling systems. 
• Experience in computer programing is required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong project management skills, organizational skills, and written and verbal communication skills are required. 
• Flexibility and self-initiative required to support several simultaneous automation projects.  
• Biotech, pharmaceutical, Lab automation providers, or clinical-laboratory experience is highly desirable

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:

• 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

$95,800.00 - $110,000.00

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