Director, Facilities

Experience: 10+ years of relevant industry experience, including 5+ years in facilities leadership roles

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 Genomics is seeking a seasoned Facilities Director to lead our facilities operations and strategy at our Boulder, CO headquarters. This senior leadership role reports to the Vice President, Operations and is responsible for the long-term planning, development, compliance, and optimization of all facilities-related functions. The Director will oversee the physical infrastructure that supports our critical R&D, manufacturing, and office operations, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate is an experienced facilities leader who excels in strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and operational excellence within regulated life science or advanced manufacturing environments. You will play a pivotal role in shaping a safe, compliant, and scalable operational environment that supports Watchmaker’s continued growth.

Responsibilities

Strategic Facilities Leadership

• Develop and execute a long-term facilities strategy that supports company growth, scientific innovation, and operational efficiency.
• Lead space planning initiatives including laboratory expansions, equipment commissioning, office renovations, and infrastructure upgrades.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align facilities planning with company-wide strategic goals.

Facilities Operations Management

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and optimization of all building systems including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, office, and critical manufacturing infrastructure.
• Establish and enforce best-in-class preventive maintenance programs and vendor management protocols.
• Ensure uninterrupted operations through robust risk management, business continuity, and emergency response plans.

Capital Projects & Budget Oversight

• Manage facilities-related capital projects from design through execution, including scope, budget, and timeline.
• Develop and manage the annual facilities operating and capital expenditure budgets.
• Lead contractor negotiations and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivery.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure facilities and equipment comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including ISO and OSHA standards.
• Oversee and maintain documentation for audits, inspections, and regulatory submissions.
• Act as a point of contact during audits and inspections and lead the implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).

Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S)

• Serve as the executive sponsor of the company’s EH&S program; ensure compliance with all safety protocols, policies, and training requirements.
• Lead the EH&S committee and ensure a culture of safety across all functions.
• Stay current on evolving safety regulations and industry standards.

Team Leadership and Development

• Build and manage a high-performing facilities and EH&S team, including facilities technicians, contractors, and safety personnel.
• Provide mentorship, professional development, and clear performance expectations for team members.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable culture within the operations department.
• Identify and lead initiatives to improve energy efficiency, space utilization, sustainability, and cost management.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to enhance facility performance and monitoring capabilities.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and recommend strategic improvements accordingly.

Skills and Requirements

Technical Expertise

• In-depth knowledge of complex building systems, laboratory infrastructure, and manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of facilities operations in regulated life science or pharmaceutical settings.
• Experience in capital project management, EH&S leadership, and regulatory compliance.

Leadership & Communication

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage external stakeholders, including contractors, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
• Exceptional planning, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across technical and executive audiences.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, facilities management, operations, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of industry experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated success managing complex facilities operations in a fast-paced, growth-stage biotech or life sciences environment.

Compensation

The base compensation for the Facilities Director role starts at $140,000 - $160,000 + bonus + equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience.

• 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
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match

Application Requirements

• 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.

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.