Process Development Associate II

Position: Process Development Associate II

Focus Area: Formulations

Position Type: Full-Time Employee

Department: R&D

Location: Boulder, CO, onsite

Experience: BS/BA with 2+ yrs industry experience, or MS with 0+ years

Position Summary

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Process Development Associate II based in Boulder, CO, USA. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. This is an onsite/in-office position with flexibility to work from home one day a week.

In this role, you will support the development, optimization, and transfer of formulation processes for molecular biology products, contributing to both new product introduction and on-market improvements.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will execute experiments, analyze data, and help translate lab-scale processes into robust, scalable manufacturing workflows. This position is ideal for someone looking to deepen their technical expertise while making meaningful contributions in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Process Development & Execution

• Execute formulation and process development experiments to support scale-up, optimization, and technical transfer
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to interpretation and next-step recommendations
• Support characterization of process parameters to ensure consistent product performance
• Assist in translating lab-scale processes into manufacturing-ready workflows

Technical Transfer & Manufacturing Support

• Support transfer of new products and processes into manufacturing
• Assist in troubleshooting process and product performance issues using structured, data-driven approaches
• Contribute to root cause investigations, NCRs, and CAPA activities
• Partner with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements

Collaboration & Project Support

• Work closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Product Management to support project goals
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives aimed at improving process robustness and efficiency
• Communicate experimental results and technical findings clearly to team members

Documentation & Quality Systems

• Author and update technical documentation including work instructions, batch records, and reports
• Ensure work is conducted in accordance with internal QMS and applicable standards
• Support training activities for new or updated processes

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper calibration and readiness
• Support reagent preparation, material handling, and lab organization
• Follow and promote safe laboratory practices

Please note:

The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and other similar duties may be required from time to time.

Skills and Requirements

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• Experience executing and documenting experiments in a laboratory setting
• Strong problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
• Ability to analyze data and contribute to technical conclusions
• Effective communication skills across cross-functional teams
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

Preferred skills and experience:

• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, NGS workflows, etc.)
• Experience with reagent formulation and analytical measurements (pipetting, balances, pH, spectrophotometry)
• Exposure to process development, scale-up, or manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with statistical analysis tools (DOE, regression, etc.)
• Exposure to quality systems (e.g., ISO 13485 or similar) and structured documentation practices

Education and Experience

• BS/BA and/or MS in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related field
• BS/BA with 2+ yrs industry experience, or MS with 0+ years

Compensation

The base compensation for the Process Development Associate II role starts at $65,000 - $75,000 + bonus + equity; actual pay will be adjusted based on skills and experience. Employees are eligible for 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, and a 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% match.

Application Requirements

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on

• 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.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled; however, early submission is encouraged as review will begin immediately.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability…