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Software Engineer

COMPANY

Octant is a well-backed team of experienced scientists and entrepreneurs at the frontiers of biology, chemistry, and computation. We are a small molecule therapeutics company combining high-throughput synthetic biology, generative chemistry, and AI/ML to repeatedly develop precision medicines for genetically defined diseases.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Octant is seeking an experienced Software Engineer who is passionate about building software that accelerates the discovery and development of life-changing therapeutics. In this role, you'll leverage your technical expertise to develop tools and infrastructure that multiply the capabilities of world-class biologists, chemists, and machine learning scientists. As a member of our small software team, you'll thrive in a fast-paced environment, identifying and driving high-impact projects from concept through completion.

AS A PART OF OCTANT'S SOFTWARE TEAM, YOU'LL:

  • Collaborate with scientists and automation engineers to develop software to facilitate and scale key laboratory processes.
  • Leverage cutting-edge technologies to develop data pipelines that ensure accessibility and quality of mission-critical data.
  • Evaluate commercial solutions, make informed build versus buy decisions, and integrate external technologies with our proprietary systems.
  • Design, build, and deploy MLOps solutions to empower machine learning scientists.
  • Mentor teammates, facilitate team execution, and shape our software product vision and strategy.

THIS JOB MIGHT BE GREAT FOR YOU IF YOU HAVE:

  • 4+ years of relevant industry experience, ideally including familiarity with chemistry and/or biology laboratory processes and associated instrumentation and automation.
  • Strong full-stack architecture and engineering skills, including experience with modern frameworks and cloud infrastructure.
  • Proven ability to balance business needs with technology choices in a dynamic startup environment.
  • Passion for collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers.
  • Excellent communication skills and a drive to lead within a collaborative team environment.

Along with your application, please share a software repo that best showcases your strengths so we can better understand the work you've led. If there is nothing public, please summarize that work in a few paragraphs. We'd love to also hear about things you've been proud to build or lead outside of science.

 

The expected annual base salary for this role is in the range of $155,000 to $195,000, depending on experience level. We offer competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage, equity, and 401(k) matching.

Octant is located in Emeryville, California and we work onsite.

 

Octant is an equal opportunity company that values applicants of all backgrounds. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. We value less traditional backgrounds, and may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.

Average salary estimate

$175000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$155000K
$195000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Software Engineer, Octant Bio

Are you ready to make a impact in the world of therapeutics? Octant, a pioneering small molecule therapeutics company located in Emeryville, California, is on the lookout for a passionate Software Engineer. This isn't just any role; it's a unique opportunity to harness your coding expertise to develop innovative solutions that aid in the discovery and development of life-changing treatments. At Octant, you’ll be collaborating closely with a team of top-notch scientists and engineers, delving into software development that supports high-throughput synthetic biology, generative chemistry, and AI/ML technologies. From building robust data pipelines to creating tools that streamline laboratory processes, every project you tackle will have a significant impact on our mission. You'll have the chance to evaluate and integrate commercial solutions and design MLOps systems that empower our machine learning initiatives. With your 4+ years of experience - ideally enriched with an understanding of lab processes - you'll play a vital role in shaping our software strategy while mentoring fellow team members. If you are eager to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment and collaborate across disciplines, this Software Engineer role at Octant could be the perfect fit for you. Together, let’s develop the next generation of precision medicines while fostering an inclusive environment where every team member can shine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Software Engineer Role at Octant Bio
What responsibilities does the Software Engineer at Octant have?

As a Software Engineer at Octant, you will be responsible for developing software solutions that support the discovery and development of therapeutics. This includes collaborating with scientists and engineers, developing data pipelines, evaluating commercial technologies, and deploying MLOps solutions. Your role will encompass driving projects from conception to completion, ensuring that the technology effectively aids the scientists in their work.

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What qualifications should I have to apply for the Software Engineer position at Octant?

To be a successful candidate for the Software Engineer role at Octant, you should possess at least 4 years of relevant industry experience. Familiarity with chemistry or biology lab processes is ideal. Furthermore, strong full-stack architecture skills and experience with modern software frameworks and cloud infrastructure are important. A passion for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and strong communication skills are also essential.

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How does Octant support its Software Engineers in their professional growth?

Octant is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, which extends to the professional development of its Software Engineers. You will have opportunities for mentorship, guiding fellow team members and being actively involved in shaping the product vision and strategy. Additionally, sharing your experiences and challenges from both professional and personal projects can help in highlighting your strengths.

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What technologies will the Software Engineer work with at Octant?

As a Software Engineer at Octant, you will have the exciting opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technologies. You will work on building data pipelines, developing MLOps solutions, and integrating various commercial technologies with proprietary systems. Knowledge in modern frameworks, cloud infrastructure, and machine learning will be particularly beneficial in this innovative role.

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What is the compensation range for the Software Engineer role at Octant?

The expected annual base salary for the Software Engineer position at Octant ranges from $155,000 to $195,000, depending on experience level. In addition, you will enjoy competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as equity and 401(k) matching, making it a comprehensive compensation package.

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Common Interview Questions for Software Engineer
Can you describe your experience with software development in a laboratory environment?

When responding to this question, highlight your previous work in laboratory settings, focusing on any specific projects you undertook that involved software development. Discuss how your contributions enhanced laboratory productivity or data management. Mention tools or technologies you used and how they aligned with the laboratory’s goals.

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What programming languages and frameworks are you proficient in?

Be prepared to discuss the programming languages you are most comfortable with, such as Python, Java, or JavaScript, and the frameworks associated with them like Django or React. Briefly mention the context in which you've used these languages in previous roles and any significant projects that highlight your skills.

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How do you ensure the quality and reliability of the software you develop?

When answering this question, discuss the practices you employ for ensuring software quality, such as code reviews, unit testing, and continuous integration. Providing examples of how these practices helped catch issues early in past projects can illustrate your commitment to delivering reliable software.

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How do you approach collaborating with interdisciplinary teams?

Demonstrate your teamwork skills by describing a specific instance when you collaborated with scientists or engineers. Focus on your communication strategies, how you tackled misunderstandings, and how you ensured that all team members contributed to the project effectively.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Tell us about a high-impact software project you've led.

This is your chance to showcase your leadership skills. Share a project where you had significant influence, detailing what your role was, the challenges faced, and how you ultimately led the team to success. Highlight the project’s positive impact on the organization or team, particularly in the context of therapeutic development.

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What is your experience with data management and developing data pipelines?

Highlight your experience with relevant data management tools and systems. Discuss how you've built or optimized data pipelines in previous roles, addressing any specific challenges you faced and the technologies you used, such as SQL, ETL tools, or cloud services.

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What are your strategies for keeping up-to-date with the latest technologies?

Discuss how you remain current with emerging technologies in software development. Mention resources such as online courses, tech blogs, or community meetups. Emphasize your commitment to lifelong learning and how it benefits your work as a Software Engineer.

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Describe a time you had to make a build versus buy decision.

Share a specific instance when you evaluated whether to build a software solution in-house or purchase it from a vendor. Discuss the factors you considered, such as time, resources, cost, and alignment with company goals, and explain how your choice impacted the project.

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How do you handle competing priorities in a fast-paced environment?

Illustrate your time management techniques, such as prioritization frameworks or tools you use to stay organized. Discuss how you balance short-term demands with long-term project goals, perhaps sharing a real-world example from your work experience.

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What interests you about working at Octant?

This question allows you to express your genuine interest in the company and its mission. Reflect on what excites you about Octant’s focus on precision medicine, and how your skills and interests align with their goals. Mentioning specific projects or technologies at Octant can demonstrate your serious interest in the role.

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DATE POSTED
April 5, 2025

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