Head of Operations 

About Switch Bioworks:

Switch Bioworks, the living fertilizer company, spun out of Stanford University in 2022 and is headquartered in San Carlos, CA. The company's internationally trained team of experts develops microbes that produce sustainable nitrogen fertilizer powered by next-generation synthetic biology. As part of the growing global bioeconomy, Switch Bioworks pledges its mission to improve planet health while also dropping the price of fertilizer at the farm gate.


About the position:

We are seeking a strategic, hands-on Head of Operations to lead and scale the company’s operational infrastructure. This leader will be responsible for overseeing daily operations with a focus on people, legal, logistics, and financial management, while cross functionally influencing and driving company R&D and business strategies forward through a seat on the leadership team with the CEO.

This role is ideal for a proactive, detail-oriented leader who thrives in dynamic environments and brings a proven track record in operational leadership, preferably within early-stage or science-based companies.

Objectives and responsabilites:

Operations & Strategy

  • Lead and continuously improve internal operations, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals.

  • Build and manage scalable systems and processes across finance, HR, and legal.

  • Partner with the CEO on business planning, fundraising, and investor relations as needed.

Finance

  • Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes including venture and non-profit / impact work.

  • Manage financial operations including accounting, payroll, and compliance.

  • Work with external accountants, auditors, and legal advisors to ensure fiscal integrity and regulatory compliance.

Legal & Risk Management

  • Manage contracts, insurance, and regulatory filings in coordination with legal counsel.

  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including those relevant to biotechnology.

  • Identify and mitigate operational and legal risks.

Human Resources

  • Build and lead HR infrastructure, including recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and employee engagement.

  • Champion company culture and values while fostering a positive, inclusive work environment.

  • Develop HR policies, compensation strategies, and organizational development plans.

Characteristics of a successful candidate:

  • Authorization to work full-time in the US required

  • Ability to be on-site in the California Bay Area most days of the week required

  • 5+ years of experience in operational leadership roles required, preferably in startups, biotech, or sustainability-focused sectors.

  • Strong background in managing financial, legal, and HR functions.

  • Experience scaling systems and teams in high-growth environments.

  • Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and decision-making skills.

  • Comfortable wearing multiple hats and building from the ground up.

  • Demonstrated commitment to sustainability, innovation, and ethical leadership.

Expected Salary Range:

  • $150,000 - $250,000

How to Apply:

E-mail the following to careers@switchbioworks.com

  • Your resume

  • A paragraph or cover letter about why you’re excited to join Switch and your interest in this specific role

  • Please include your earliest available start date

Once you share your resume and cover letter, we’ll take it from there!

Thank you for your interest.