Manufacturing Specialist -Water Bear Bio (ETS)- Temporary

Emory • Atlanta, GA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Water Bear Bio is an academic biotech startup revolutionizing the way biological samples are handled. They are preparing to launch their cutting-edge Extract & Store (E&S) technology, which integrates RNA extraction and stabilization into a single, field-ready kit. By dramatically improving RNA stabilization and eliminating the need for ultra-cold storage, their drop-in system enables critical emerging virus surveillance and testing anywhere in the world. As they accelerate their go-to-market transition, they are seeking a highly motivated Temporary Manufacturing Specialist to join their launch team. In this high-impact, sprint-focused role, you will be instrumental in scaling up production to turn international collaborations into first sales. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience bridging the gap between university-born innovation and commercial manufacturing, directly supporting pilot deployments at high-credibility sites globally. The role involves transitioning the Extract & Store (E&S) technology from ad-hoc assembly to small batch manufacturing. While employed through Emory University, this role directly supports Water Bear Bio’s goal of rapidly deploying E&S kits to strategic domestic and international pilot sites. By establishing dedicated inventory, this role will eliminate manufacturing bottlenecks and significantly reduce the sales and pilot cycle.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field
• Prior hands-on experience working in a laboratory, cleanroom, or medical device/biotech manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated experience executing strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and a clear understanding of lot release criteria and quality control
• Excellent fine motor skills for the precise, repetitive handling of small components, such as assembling 1.5 mL tubes, loading desiccant spheres, and securing membranes
• Hyper-attention to detail to ensure end-user viability
• Must be highly reliable, capable of managing time independently to hit strict inventory targets, and proactive in communicating supply shortages or bottlenecks

Responsibilities

• Scale up ad-hoc kit assembly to small batch manufacturing to produce at least 100 fully packaged product kits
• Manufacture 50 kits of 50 extractions and 50 kits of 96 extractions (Bio Card arrays)
• Execute repeatable standard operating procedures (SOPs) developed in partnership with Rook Quality Systems
• Conduct quality control testing and adhere strictly to lot release criteria
• Assemble and package components, including lysis tubes, Bio Cards, drop-in storage cylinders, and liquid reagents

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees