Process Development Associate II

Position: Process Development Associate II

Focus Area: Formulations

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Department: R&D

Location: Boulder, CO, onsite

Experience: BS/BA with 2 yrs industry experience, or MS with 0 years.

Watchmaker Genomics is a global life science company based in Boulder, Colorado with an R&D and Production facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Our team is passionate about innovation and values collaboration, creativity, and scientific rigor.

We believe that the intersection of biology, engineering, and computer science presents exciting opportunities for developing novel technologies that promote research and improve human health. Watchmaker Genomics specializes in the design, development, and production of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes that enable high-growth applications in genomics, molecular diagnostics, and personalized medicine.

Position Summary

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Process Development Associate II based in Boulder, CO, USA. The successful candidate will 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.

In this role, you will support the development, optimization, and transfer of formulation processes for molecular biology products, contributing to both new product introduction and on-market improvements.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will execute experiments, analyze data, and help translate lab-scale processes into robust, scalable manufacturing workflows. This position is ideal for someone looking to deepen their technical expertise while making meaningful contributions in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Process Development & Execution

• Execute formulation and process development experiments to support scale-up, optimization, and technical transfer
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to interpretation and next-step recommendations
• Support characterization of process parameters to ensure consistent product performance
• Assist in translating lab-scale processes into manufacturing-ready workflows

Technical Transfer & Manufacturing Support

• Support transfer of new products and processes into manufacturing
• Assist in troubleshooting process and product performance issues using structured, data-driven approaches
• Contribute to root cause investigations, NCRs, and CAPA activities
• Partner with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements

Collaboration & Project Support

• Work closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Product Management to support project goals
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives aimed at improving process robustness and efficiency
• Communicate experimental results and technical findings clearly to team members

Documentation & Quality Systems

• Author and update technical documentation including work instructions, batch records, and reports
• Ensure work is conducted in accordance with internal QMS and applicable standards
• Support training activities for new or updated processes

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper calibration and readiness
• Support reagent preparation, material handling, and lab organization
• Follow and promote safe laboratory practices

Please note: The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and other similar duties may be required from time to time.

Skills and Requirements

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• Experience executing and documenting experiments in a laboratory setting
• Strong problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
• Ability to analyze data and contribute to technical conclusions
• Effective communication skills across cross-functional teams
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

Preferred skills and experience:

• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, NGS workflows, etc.)
• Experience with reagent formulation and analytical measurements (pipetting, balances, pH, spectrophotometry)
• Exposure to process development, scale-up, or manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with statistical analysis tools (DOE, regression, etc.)
• Exposure to quality systems (e.g., ISO 13485 or similar) and structured documentation practices

Education and Experience

• BS/BA and/or MS in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related field
• BS/BA with 2 yrs industry experience, or MS with 0 years

Compensation

The base compensation for the Process Development Associate II role starts at $65,000 - $75,000 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 with a buy-up option, 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.

*** 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.

*** 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.