Job Title: Laboratory Director, Early Cancer Detection

Our Opportunity

Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to advancing oncology, women's health, and organ health. Our mission is to integrate personalized genetic testing and diagnostics into standard care, enabling earlier, more targeted interventions for longer, healthier lives. Join a team of dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, scientists, and professionals from world-class institutions who are passionate about changing the landscape of genetic disease management.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure accurate and timely results for patients.
• Oversee and review genetic data in the context of patient care.
• Provide clinical and technical support for testing within the Early Cancer Detection program.
• Establish and maintain high standards for laboratory testing and analytic performance.
• Ensure strict compliance with all applicable regulatory, quality, and laboratory standards.
• Document findings and maintain accurate records in accordance with internal policies and procedures.

Clinical Consultant Responsibilities (May Service As)

• Ensure test reports contain pertinent information for interpretation.
• Be available for consultation regarding test results and their interpretation in relation to specific patient conditions.

Technical Supervisor Responsibilities (May Serve As)

• Ensure appropriate test method selection and adequate method verification for accuracy and precision.
• Manage enrollment in CMS-approved proficiency testing (PT) programs and ensure PT samples are tested according to CLIA requirements.
• Oversee the timely return of PT results and review of PT reports by appropriate staff.
• Implement and document corrective action plans for unacceptable PT results.
• Establish and maintain quality assessment and quality control programs.
• Ensure acceptable analytical test performance and implement remedial actions for significant deviations, reporting patient results only when systems are functioning correctly.
• Ensure personnel are appropriately trained and demonstrate competency before testing patient specimens.
• Establish and maintain policies for monitoring personnel competency across all testing phases (preanalytical, analytical, postanalytical).
• Identify and provide training for remedial or continuing education needs.
• Ensure an approved procedure manual is available to all personnel.

Team Collaboration & Development

• Leadership & Mentorship: Review and approve assigned work, actively mentoring and developing laboratory personnel to foster professional growth.
• Strategic Planning: Lead succession planning and contingency management initiatives for the immediate team and broader business units.

Data Privacy & Compliance

• PHI Handling: Handle Protected Health Information (PHI) securely in compliance with privacy protocols.
• Mandatory Training: Complete all required HIPAA/PHI privacy, security, and General Policies and Procedures training within 30 days of hire.
• Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date on all Natera training and compliance requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS

• MD/DO and/or PhD in genetics or a related field required.
• ABMGG board-certified in Clinical Cytogenetics and/or Molecular Genetics, ABP board-certified in Molecular Genetic Pathology, or equivalent doctoral-level board certification required.
• Current California laboratory director license as a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist or Clinical Cytogeneticist required.
• Current Certificate of Qualification in Genetic Testing from the NYS CLEP required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a CLIA-certified clinical laboratory setting analyzing, interpreting, and reporting clinical genetic/genomic data.
• Knowledge of CAP, CLIA, California, and New York state regulations.
• Management experience required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience leading a laboratory offering prenatal screening and oncology testing, including evaluating, interpreting, and reporting NGS and microarray data.
• Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and/or advanced methods of copy number detection.
• Strong background in human and medical genetics, and oncology, with familiarity with online human genomics resources.
• Understanding of statistical measures used in genetic testing and screening.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Duties typically performed in a BSL-2 lab setting.
• May require standing or sitting for long periods.
• May require working various shifts, weekends, and/or overtime.
• Duties are typically performed in a laboratory or office environment, onsite or remotely.
• Requires ability to review digital or printed pathology materials, use a computer, and communicate effectively.
• Extended periods of screen time may be necessary.
• Occasional work outside standard business hours may be required.

Travel Required

• Yes ( <10%)

Compensation & Total Rewards

• Compensation Range: $157,600—$197,000 USD
• Additional Compensation: Annual performance incentive bonus, long-term equity awards.
• Benefits: Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) with company match, generous paid time off, company holidays, wellness and work-life benefits.

What We Offer

• Competitive Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans. Free testing for employees and immediate families, fertility care benefits, pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401(k) with match, commuter benefits, and more. Generous employee referral program.

Learn more at www.natera.com.

Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued.

For California residents, please review important information regarding data collection: https://www.natera.com/notice-of-data-collection-california-residents.

Beware of fraudulent communications. Natera only uses @natera.com email domains. We do not request interviews via text or ask for personal information early in the process.