Associate CQV Engineer

Natera • Austin, TX

3d

About The Position

The Associate CQV Engineer supports laboratory equipment and instrumentation used in the Operations laboratory. The role covers installation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of equipment ranging from simple devices such as plate sealers to complex systems such as liquid-handling robotics. The engineer is the primary point of contact for production laboratory personnel when equipment is not operating or does not meet operational specifications.

The position works with Instrument Support Engineers, Automation, laboratory teams, Quality Assurance, Equipment Technicians, Level II service personnel, and vendors to resolve equipment issues, conduct installations and qualifications, and maintain equipment performance. Service work must comply with applicable safety and regulatory requirements and company quality policies. The role also requires maintaining accurate and timely service documentation, developing equipment-service expertise, and completing required training related to HIPAA/PHI privacy, compliance, and security.

The role works with PHI in paper and electronic form and uses technologies that provide access to PHI to perform job duties. Natera describes itself as a global leader in cell-free DNA testing for oncology, women’s health, and organ health, with a mission to advance personalized genetic testing and diagnostics.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biological science, biomedical engineering, or a similar field of study, or comparable industry experience.
• At least 1 year of industry-related experience.
• Experience supporting laboratory equipment or similar equipment.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to promote a positive team environment.
• Adaptability in a frequently changing environment.
• Ability to follow general instructions for routine work and detailed instructions for new projects or assignments.
• High level of professionalism and responsibility.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
• Ability to work in ambiguous situations and respond to new information and unexpected circumstances.
• Ability to convey concepts and priorities and solicit feedback and input.
• Working knowledge of word processing and data management tools such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work with PHI and access it using paper and electronic technologies as required for the job.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with DNA isolation and purification, PCR, cell culture, sequencing, or related laboratory processes.
• Experience operating automation or sequencing instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Respond to instrument failures and work with Instrument Support Engineers, Automation, and laboratory teams to ensure instruments function properly.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot system concerns to minimize downtime.
• Install laboratory equipment, including liquid handlers, sequencers, and plate sealers.
• Coordinate or perform instrument installations and qualifications according to equipment protocols.
• Work with Quality Assurance to determine qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), calibration, and preventive maintenance requirements for new instruments as needed to comply with regulations.
• Maintain preventive maintenance, routine maintenance, and calibration programs for laboratory equipment.
• Perform troubleshooting and Level 1 service, coordinating with Level II service personnel and vendors for escalated issues.
• Recommend and implement changes to support ongoing high-quality equipment performance.
• Perform service activities in compliance with relevant safety and regulatory requirements, including OSHA, CAP, and CLIA.
• Maintain and develop knowledge and expertise related to clinical laboratory equipment service.
• Track service activities using systems established under service procedures and laboratory policies.
• Ensure service documentation is complete, timely, and accurate in accordance with Good Documentation Practices.
• Support and comply with the company’s Quality Management System policies and procedures.
• Coordinate duties with the Equipment Technician.
• Complete required HIPAA/PHI privacy, general compliance, and security training as soon as possible and no later than 30 days after hire, and maintain current status on Natera training requirements.
• Perform other tasks specified by the supervisor or manager.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing for employees and their immediate families.
• Fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401(k) benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Employee referral program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level