Design Transfer Scientist

Natera; San Carlos (CA); On-site; USD 116,160 - 145,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual performance incentive bonus

Long-term equity awards

Comprehensive health benefits

401(k) with company match

Generous paid time off

Additional wellness benefits

Job summary

Natera is seeking a Design Transfer Scientist to lead the transition of our IVD NGS assays from R&D to clinical operations. This role combines molecular biology with manufacturing execution to develop compliant production pipelines that impact patient care directly.

The ideal candidate possesses deep experience in assay development, quality systems, and molecular techniques. The compensation range is $116,160–$145,200 USD along with a comprehensive benefits package including bonuses, health coverage, and 401(k) matching.

Qualifications

• Experience with automated high-throughput NGS assays.
• Proven track record authoring comprehensive study plans and technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute process validations and stability studies.
• Support test method development and Test Method Validation (TMV).
• Lead risk management activities like FMEAs.
• Investigate product deviations and root cause analysis.

Skills

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows

Molecular biology techniques

Design Controls

Quality Management Systems (QMS)

Statistical analysis

Automated liquid handling platforms

Education

BA/BS in Life Sciences with 8+ years, MS with 5+ years, or PhD with 3+ years experience

Tools

Minitab

JMP

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Join Natera's Bio Development Team as a Design Transfer Scientist to lead the transition of our market‑leading In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) assays from R&D into scalable clinical operations. This role bridges molecular biology with manufacturing execution, requiring an ownership mindset to build robust, compliant production pipelines that directly impact patient care. The ideal candidate combines rigorous laboratory execution with robust data analysis and precise technical documentation to deliver production‑ready protocols.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own and execute process validations, stability studies, and study protocols, translating raw experimental data into final technical reports
• Support test method development, characterization, and Test Method Validation (TMV) to generate accurate manufacturing specifications
• Lead risk management activities, including FMEAs, to identify and mitigate potential product risks early
• Manage change control workflows to evaluate and document the operational impact of design changes on on‑market products
• Investigate product or process deviations, perform rigorous root cause analysis, and implement sustainable Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA)
• Coordinate with multiple internal groups (automation engineering, laboratory operations, bioinformatics, statistics, project and product management) and serve as point person to ensure the successful identification and timely execution of projects
• Partner directly with Supply Chain to establish reliable raw material and consumable pipelines
• Communicate complex technical updates, data‑driven proposals, and project status clearly to cross‑functional stakeholders across the business

QUALIFICATIONS

• BA/BS with 8+ years experience, MS with 5+ years or PhD with 3+ years experience in assay development and automation for the life science industry
• Experience with automated high-throughput NGS assays

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Hands‑on expertise with Next‑Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, including DNA/RNA extraction, targeted enrichment, or library preparation
• Direct experience executing molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, NGS library preparation, and hybrid capture technologies
• Strong operational knowledge of Design Controls, Quality Management Systems (QMS), and regulatory standards (FDA, ISO 13485, CLSI) within regulated clinical diagnostic manufacturing environments
• Proven track record authoring comprehensive study plans, validation protocols, and technical reports
• Proficiency in statistical analysis with experience using specialized software such as Minitab or JMP
• Prior experience in IVD product development, scale‑up, manufacturing, or commercial Quality Control (QC) is highly preferred
• Experience operating or optimizing automated liquid handling platforms (such as Hamilton or Tecan) is preferred
• Exceptional organization skills to manage complex validation timelines and drive technical projects to successful completion

Compensation & Total Rewards

Compensation Range: $116,160 – $145,200 USD

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

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

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.