Genomics Technician - Applications Development

ABOUT US:
Volta Labs is an applications company that is revolutionizing the future of genomics. We are a Boston based, venture-backed biotech startup that makes extracting vital information from biological samples is as simple as pressing a button, through our flagship product Callisto. Our product speeds up processing time for scientists and increases accessibility to important genetic information for patients. Sitting at the intersection of science and engineering, we invite you to join us on our journey to shape the future of genomics, where insatiable curiosity is encouraged and every Voltarian makes an impact.

THE TEAM:
You'll join a team of innovative thinkers who love to experiment, collaborate, and win together. We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of automation, biology, computing, robotics, design, and user experience to benefit our customers and the world.

Reporting to a Senior Scientist, you will support execution and validation of genomics sample preparation applications on Volta’s digital fluidics automation platform. This role is ideal for someone early in their career who enjoys careful hands-on work, learning new laboratory techniques, and building strong laboratory habits in an industry environment. You will primarily run established workflows, generate high-quality data, and help ensure protocols perform reliably across repeated runs.

You'll join a collaborative team that combines molecular biology, automation, and software to turn laboratory workflows into dependable products. We work closely across applications, engineering, product, and field teams to ensure experiments run consistently — both internally and at customer sites. Our focus is precision, repeatability, and clear documentation.

Day 1 to Year 1::
• Execute experiments following good laboratory practice and standard protocols
• Accurately document procedures, results, and observations in an electronic lab notebook
• Prepare reagents, consumables, and samples for daily experiments
• Operate laboratory instrumentation (thermal cyclers, magnetic separations, fluorometers, fragment analyzers, centrifuges)
• Perform routine QC measurements including DNA/RNA concentration and fragment size analysis
• Monitor experiments and promptly flag unexpected results or deviations
• Assist in repeatability and validation testing
• Maintain organized lab inventory, reagents, and workspace readiness
• Support equipment maintenance and general laboratory upkeep
• Collaborate with team members to ensure consistent experimental execution

Within 3 months you’ll…
Ramp on Callisto system basics, standard assay modules, and established App workflows. Learn laboratory SOPs, documentation standards, and cross-functional communication norms. Independently execute routine workflows with high accuracy, maintain complete ELN records, and reliably generate QC data (Qubit, Nanodrop, fragment analysis). Demonstrate consistent experimental reproducibility across repeated runs and maintain organized lab readiness.

Within 6 months you’ll…
Independently run multiple validated NGS sample prep workflows end-to-end with minimal supervision. Identify and flag deviations in QC metrics (yield variability, fragment distribution shifts, cleanup inconsistencies) and assist in structured repeatability and validation studies. Support troubleshooting efforts by executing controlled comparison experiments and maintaining precise documentation. Contribute to incremental workflow refinements under guidance.

Within 12 months you’ll…
Serve as a dependable execution lead for established applications, ensuring day-to-day experimental consistency and high-quality data generation. Train new technicians on standard workflows and lab practices. Proactively identify opportunities to improve workflow robustness, lab organization, and documentation standards. Act as a trusted operator supporting cross-functional validation and productization efforts.

Who You Are:
• B.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related discipline
• 0–2 years hands-on laboratory experience (academic lab, internship, or industry)
• Comfortable working with spreadsheets for experiment tracking, data recording, and basic analysis
• Experience maintaining clear electronic lab notebook (ELN) records
• Experience quantifying DNA using Qubit and Nanodrop
• Basic familiarity with pipetting and standard laboratory technique
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written instructions precisely
• Good documentation and organizational skills
• Comfortable performing repetitive workflows while maintaining accuracy
• Willingness to learn new instruments and laboratory processes
• Clear communication and reliability in a fast-paced team environment
Nice to have:
• Exposure to PCR, nucleic acid cleanup, or gel/fragment analysis
• Exposure to next generation sequencing workflows

This is a full-time position that requires a significant amount of in-person work and collaboration onsite at our Seaport Office in Boston, MA. If you are unable to relocate or commute to the Boston MA area, this role won't be a match.

Our Benefits and Perks:

• Robust Equity Program, to build future wealth through stock options with high growth potential
• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage, including Medical, Dental, & Vision
• HSA with monthly company contribution, & FSA
• Sponsored Commuter Benefit Plans
• Access to Our 401K Plan, to save for your future
• 12 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Time Off, because we understand the importance of time off for rest and adventure
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Twice Weekly Company Lunches, office snacks, beverages, & treats
• Monthly Team Happy Hours and regular team outings!

We are an equal opportunity employer and foster diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status, and we actively seek out and value diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Even if you don't check every box, but see yourself positively contributing, please apply. Help us build an inclusive community that will change the face of genomics!