Supervisor, RUO Plasma Processing

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Join Natera’s Oncology Research Use Only (RUO) team as a Supervisor for the Signatera Plasma Team. You will direct laboratory staff executing cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extraction, library preparation, and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows to advance our personalized Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) assays. Every sample represents a real person, and you will ensure that all lab processes operate with the pace and precision required to support our clinical pipeline.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Oversee the daily scheduling of employees executing DNA extractions, library preparation, Nucleic Acid Quality Control (QC), and NGS workflows
• Conduct regular 1:1 meetings to deliver unvarnished, data-backed performance evaluations and guide career development
• Take ownership of daily lab operations by directly executing sample processing alongside the team to maintain throughput
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact, using data to guide team members on data interpretation, next steps, and troubleshooting
• Execute process development and method/instrument testing to increase operational precision and scale
• Use data to identify lab process deviations, root-cause the underlying issues, and document findings via nonconformance reports to drive corrective action
• Draft, generate, and rigorously review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
• Maintain precise records of lab work using Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and internal Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Ensure accurate, ethical, and appropriate management of samples in strict compliance with all applicable federal regulations
• Think team by partnering directly with Oncology RUO peer groups to eliminate bottlenecks and optimize sample processing without needing translation layers
• Present data-backed summaries on team activities, project milestones, and timeline adherence
• Adapt to evolving science and operational needs, taking ownership of tasks that move the work forward without waiting for a finished playbook
• Handle protected health information (PHI) in paper and electronic formats as required to perform duties
• Complete required HIPAA/PHI privacy and security training within the first 30 days of hire and maintain current status on all training

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent
• 3 to 4 years of related laboratory experience
• Prior team management experience is highly preferred
• Must pass a post-offer criminal background check

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Direct hands-on experience with nucleic acid techniques, including isolation, purification, quantification, amplification, and hybridization capture
• Extensive familiarity with rigorous pipetting practices using single- and multi-channel micropipettes and serological pipettes
• Hands-on experience operating Laboratory Automation platforms (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Biomek, QIAsymphony)
• Hands-on experience with library preparation and NGS platforms
• Proficiency with LIMS and database software
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace applications
• Experience leading a lab team, spanning scheduling, training, workload prioritization, and building an execution-focused culture, is a plus
• Ability to think analytically, testing assumptions with data to troubleshoot and solve complex problems
• Clear, direct oral and written communication skills to present data and identify operational improvements
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills to build effective working relationships within the functional area
• Manage competing priorities while operating with pace and precision in an evolving scientific environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Duties are typically performed in an office and laboratory setting on a daily basis
• Requires the ability to perform repetitive motions during pipetting and sample processing
• Requires the ability to use a computer keyboard and read printed material
• Requires onsite work in San Carlos, CA, and flexibility to work shifted schedules (e.g., 7am–4pm, 11am–8pm, 7pm–3am) with a 30-minute break
• Weekend shifts may be scheduled based on operational demand
• May require lifting or moving items weighing up to 25 lbs