Lab Technician Lead; San Francisco

About Plasmidsaurus

Plasmidsaurus is on a mission to accelerate new cures and promote a healthier planet by unlocking a new level of productivity for scientists. Our sequencing services are used daily by thousands of innovators, including Nobel laureates, Fortune 100 pharma, and over 70,000 scientists. We began by revolutionizing plasmid sequencing, making it exponentially cheaper and faster, with innovative sequencing technologies and a global network of laboratories that turn samples into answers in hours, not weeks.

Now we are expanding that same disruptive model across all of genomics. With the launch of our new RNA‑seq service, we are taking a bold step toward our vision to sequence everything, providing scientists everywhere with faster, simpler, and more affordable access to the data that powers discovery. Every team member at Plasmidsaurus plays a crucial role in driving the future of biotech research.

Together, we are building the world’s most efficient sequencing engine that operates overnight, scales globally, and helps scientists make breakthroughs faster than ever before.

This is an in‑office position in our South San Francisco, CA location.

Working Hours:

Monday to Friday, starting at 3:30 pm. Plasmidsaurus will confirm the working hours before an offer of employment, but candidates should be aware of the non‑traditional schedule upon applying to the role.

• Sample Preparation & Instrument Operation:
  Prepare and troubleshoot DNA samples for sequencing; operate and maintain sequencing and liquid‑handling instruments; monitor performance and resolve equipment issues.
• Data Quality & Analysis:
  Review sequencing output, perform quality control, collaborate with bioinformaticians, and monitor pipeline progress to ensure timely delivery.
• Shift Support & Workflow Decisions:
  Answer questions, clarify SOP steps, make real‑time judgment calls, and step in to clear bottlenecks when turnaround expectations are at risk.
• Task & Workload Balancing:
  Adjust task distribution during shifts to maintain fairness, efficiency, and consistent throughput.
• Safety, Compliance & Documentation:
  Uphold safety protocols, reinforce PPE and waste‑disposal procedures, maintain accurate documentation, and support a clean, organized lab environment.
• Training, Coaching & Performance Awareness:
  Train new hires using SOPs and side‑by‑side walkthroughs, reinforce good habits, answer technical questions, and share performance observations with the Lab Manager.
• Inventory & Logistics Coordination:
  Track consumables, notify the Lab Manager when supplies need ordering, and coordinate shipment consumables for customers to ensure timely deliveries.

• Lab
  
  Experience:
  
  Experience performing DNA extraction and/or sequencing workflows and 2+ years of hands‑on experience in a high‑throughput laboratory environment are required.
• Leadership
  
  Experience:
  
  Demonstrated leadership in a laboratory environment, including guiding teammates through complex workflows, prioritizing tasks, resolving bottlenecks, and helping uphold operational standards during high‑throughput shifts.
• Problem Solver:
  Creative problem solver who can dig into an issue and figure out ways to resolve it.
• Lifelong Learner:
  Curious and committed to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest scientific trends.
• Detail‑Oriented & Organized:
  Meticulous attention to detail and ability to stay organized while working on multiple projects at a time.
• Proactive:
  Self‑starter with a proactive attitude and the ability to work independently.
• Communication:
  Excellent communication skills with strong interpersonal ability to clearly communicate ideas, coach peers, and collaborate across lab locations.

This position is open to candidates who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for the duration of employment. We are unable to provide sponsorship or transfer of sponsorship. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't perfectly align with the job description as we seek out diverse and creative perspectives. Team members who love to learn and collaborate in an inclusive environment will thrive with us.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you need additional accommodations to feel comfortable during your interview process, please let us know at

Compensation Range: $83K - $90K