Process Development Scientist I

Position: Process Development Scientist I

Focus Area: Test Method Development (TMD)

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Department: Research and Development

Location: Boulder, CO

Experience: Minimum of BS/BA with 5+ yrs industry experience, or minimum of MS with 3+ years of industry experience, or minimum of PhD with some industry experience for Research Scientist I. Open to applicants with more experience.

Position Summary

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Process Development Scientist I based in Boulder, CO, USA.

This role will support the development, optimization, and transfer of test methods that ensure the performance and quality of Watchmaker’s molecular biology products. The PD Scientist I will work under the guidance of senior scientists and team leads, contributing to the design, execution, and documentation of laboratory studies within a compliant Quality Management System (QMS).

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and enzymology, and a strong desire to expand their skills in test method development and validation. The successful candidate will additionally thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. This is an onsite/in-office position with flexibility to work from home one day a week.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute statistically powered test method validation studies, develop data processing and report templates, and troubleshoot assays and instruments
• Mentor and train analysts on test methods and laboratory procedures, good documentation practices, data review, and other QC quality systems
• Collaborate cross-department to perform method optimization, verification, and transfer to Quality Control (QC)
• Author technical documents, including test methods, protocols, reports, and data summaries
• Design novel experimental approaches for new product development and for continuous improvement of processes related to on-market material
• Lead in cross-functional meetings and contribute to discussions on product and process improvements
• Assist in the onboarding, qualification, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and reagents
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP)
• Operate within the framework of Watchmaker's QMS to ensure adherence to ISO 13485 standards
• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in test method validation and help to implement systemic process improvements
• Lead nonconformance investigations, manage change control activities, and appropriately escalate issues to various teams

Skills and Requirements

• Foundational knowledge and practical experience with molecular biology techniques, including NGS workflows and enzymology
• Strong laboratory skills with attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, reproducible data
• Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific troubleshooting
• Effective communication skills with the ability to document and present scientific data clearly
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative, goal-oriented team
• Basic understanding of Quality Management Systems (QMS) and relevant standards (e.g., ISO 13485) is a plus
• Excellent organizational skills and a willingness to learn and grow within the role
• Experience with epigenomics or DNA methylation techniques is a plus but not required

Education and Experience

• Minimum of BS/BA with 5+ yrs industry experience, or minimum of MS with 3+ years of industry experience, or minimum of PhD with some industry experience for Research Scientist I. Open to applicants with more experience.

Compensation

The base compensation for the Process Development Scientist I role starts at $83,000-95,000 + bonus + equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience. Employees are eligible for Flexible Time Off, Holidays, employer covers 75% of base medical plan with buy-up options, EAP (employee assistance program), employer paid dental, employer paid vision, employer paid $25,000 life/AD&D policy, paid parental leave, and a 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match.

Application Requirements 

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com: 

• Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter)
• Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Local candidates preferred.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled; however, early submission is encouraged as review will begin immediately.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested.

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NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE

We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics.

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WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if currently eligible to work in the United States of America; and if now or in the future will require visa sponsorship to continue working in the United States.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.