Senior Bioinformatics Scientist

Natera • US Remote, CA

1d • $117,400 - $146,800 • Remote

About The Position

Natera is seeking a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to lead the architecture, development, and automation of high-throughput genomic pipelines. This role is responsible for building production-grade software tools to analyze next-generation sequencing (NGS) data including variant calling, fusion detection, and data quality control. The ideal candidate combines a deep understanding of sequence alignment algorithms with strong object-oriented programming skills to design scalable computational workflows in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related quantitative field.
• Deep theoretical and practical understanding of high-throughput DNA sequence data analysis, including mapping, sequence alignment, and variant calling workflows.
• Advanced understanding of data structures, algorithm design, and computational complexity.
• Strong software engineering proficiency in Java or C++ within a professional production environment.
• Demonstrated scripting capability in Python or Perl for data manipulation, automation, and rapid prototyping.
• Deep expertise navigating Linux environments, utilizing command-line tools, and writing efficient shell scripts.
• Demonstrated technical autonomy and rigorous data discipline when troubleshooting high-complexity algorithmic challenges.
• Excellent communication skills with a proven track record of explaining computational results clearly to cross-functional stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience working with relational databases, particularly MySQL, is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze complex genomic datasets leveraging scaled in-house pipelines, partnering cross-functionally with wet-lab scientists and statisticians to rapidly deliver data-driven answers to critical research goals.
• Architect, build, and deploy automated analysis pipelines for diagnostic tests, integrating robust capabilities for fusion detection, variant calling, and automated quality control metrics.
• Engineer novel genomic analysis tools and proactively identify optimization pathways to enhance pipeline accuracy and efficiency.
• Participate in code reviews, technical documentation, and the continuous improvement of core computational workflows.
• Coordinate directly with downstream infrastructure teams to ensure R&D tools scale efficiently into production systems.

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.
• 401k benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree