Position: Production Assistant

Position Type: Full time, permanent

Department: Production

Location: Cape Town

Experience: Grade 12, Recognition is given to Prior Learning and Practical Experience

Watchmaker Genomics is a global life science company based in Boulder, Colorado with an R&D and Production facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Our team is passionate about innovation and values collaboration, creativity, and scientific rigor. We believe that the intersection of biology, engineering, and computer science presents exciting opportunities for developing novel technologies that promote research and improve human health. Watchmaker Genomics specializes in the design, development, and production of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes that enable high-growth applications in genomics, molecular diagnostics, and personalized medicine.

Position Description

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Production Assistant based In Cape Town, South Africa.

The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success.

Responsibilities:

Main duties include, but are not restricted to, the following:

• Cleaning of laboratory floors and walls,
• Cleaning of laboratory furniture and equipment,
• Washing of laboratory glassware and plastics,
• Preparation and Sterilisation of equipment,
• Cleaning of fridges and freezers,
• Preparing and emptying waste bins,
• Preparing of solutions as required (e.g. 70% EtOH),
• Preparation of gowning material,
• Replenishing PPE stations,
• Assist with stock cycle counts,
• Housekeeping in the manufacturing labs,
• Labelling and Manual Packaging of components,
• Consumables, Raw Material and Finished Goods material movement,
• Administration - Printing & Filing

Skills and Requirements:

The ideal candidate should have a Grade 12 certificate, with 2 years experience in a biotech/pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

The following skills and experience are requirements for the position:

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to multitask, be able to work at a high standard, perform consistently under pressure along with pre-determined deadlines and work without supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work as an effective member of a team.
• Good communication and personal task management skills and a high level of self-motivation and initiative.
• Basic understanding of health and safety procedures
• Knowledge of cleaning machinery/cleaning materials and detergents
• Clear communication skills
• Time management skills
• Basic computer skills

Education and Experience:

• Grade 12,
• Recognition is given to Prior Learning and Practical Experience within a manufacturing environment

Application Requirements:

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:

• 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. Applicants must be South African or be eligible to work in South Africa and already possess the necessary work permits or visas, or be able to obtain them before responding to this vacancy.

To ensure your application is considered, please submit it by Thursday, 30 April 2026. Please note that this position may close earlier if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested. We will also request a current payslip.

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NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE

We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics

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SOUTH AFRICA - WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if they are currently eligible to work in South Africa. South African citizens are preferred.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable laws.