Supervisor, Oncology RUO

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

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 skills 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

$82,300—$102,850 USD