Associate

Associate Position

Location: Thousand Oaks, CA

Duration: 36 months

Schedule: Standard daytime business hours, approximately 8 AM–5 PM, with flexibility for earlier or later start times based on project needs.

Ideal Candidate Summary

The hiring manager is seeking an entry-level laboratory associate with foundational molecular biology knowledge, hands-on laboratory experience, and a genuine interest in developing a long-term scientific career. A bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field is preferred, and experience gained through academic research, internships, or industry is acceptable. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, scientifically curious, and comfortable supporting high-volume DNA sample processing, sample tracking, and automated laboratory workflows. Strong communication, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining accurate documentation are essential. The manager values candidates who understand the reasoning behind laboratory procedures, demonstrate learning agility, and are eager to grow professionally.

As a member of the NGS team, you will support next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows while providing cross-functional laboratory support for maintenance of yeast cultures. You will prepare, quality-check, and troubleshoot sequencing libraries; support sequencing runs; and maintain accurate sample and project records. This is a hands-on role for someone with a strong foundation in molecular biology and cell culture who is eager to learn new techniques and contribute to a collaborative, fast-paced laboratory environment.

Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including accurate pipetting, PCR, DNA cleanup, and bead-based purification.

Prepare sequencing libraries and develop an understanding of the library preparation process.

Assess DNA and library quality using DNA quantification methods and TapeStation or gel-based analysis, including evaluation of library size.

Support sequencing workflows by preparing and loading samples onto sequencing instruments and developing an understanding of core NGS concepts.

Follow procedures to prevent sample mix-ups and cross-contamination; recognize unexpected results, document observations, and escalate issues appropriately.

Maintain accurate sample identification, project and sample tracking, and electronic laboratory notebook records in a timely manner. Use tools such as Benchling, Excel, or other electronic tracking systems as needed.

Perform yeast cell culture or other cell culture activities as needed, using appropriate aseptic technique.

Maintain and operate laboratory equipment, perform routine setup and care, and report maintenance issues.

Work with laboratory automation and robotics as needed. Prior experience is not required, but interest in learning is encouraged.

Follow written procedures and safety requirements, complete assigned training, and maintain an organized work area.

Prioritize work across multiple samples and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and reliability.

The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in molecular biology and can learn new laboratory methods on the job. They are detail-oriented, organized, and dependable, with strong communication skills and the ability to stay calm while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. They take initiative, ask questions when instructions or results are unclear, and work collaboratively with colleagues and across teams. Experience with NGS, library preparation, DNA quantification, TapeStation or gel analysis, cell culture, sample tracking, or laboratory automation is beneficial.

Must Haves

Scientific acumen and critical thinking: Look for research or coursework showing that the candidate understood the purpose of an experiment, followed a method, analyzed results, and drew evidence-based conclusions. Experience with molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, or sequencing is especially relevant.

Efficient, detail-oriented execution: Look for examples of completing hands-on work accurately while managing multiple samples, experiments, or deadlines. Experience with repetitive protocols, high sample volumes, careful recordkeeping, or meeting time-sensitive project milestones can suggest readiness for a fast-paced lab.

Learning agility and initiative: Look for examples of learning a new technique or instrument, troubleshooting an unexpected result, taking ownership of a project, or contributing beyond assigned tasks. These are useful indicators that the candidate can grow into NGS, cell culture, and automation workflows.

Salary and Other Compensation: The annual salary for this position is between $20.00 - $21.00 per hour. Factors which may affect pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

Benefits: The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: [medical insurance], [dental insurance], [vision insurance], [401(k) retirement plan], [life insurance], [long-term disability insurance], [short-term disability insurance], [paid parking/public transportation], [Paid time off], [Days/hours of paid sick and safe time], [Days/hours of paid vacation time], [Weeks of paid parental leave], [Paid holidays annually], [any additional benefits applicable].