Job Summary
We are seeking a LIMS Validation Test Lead to own the testing and validation of cloud-based LIMS in regulated life sciences environments. The ideal candidate has hands-on GxP SaaS validation experience, ideally with Benchling, though we also welcome experience with similar platforms such as Benchling alternatives like Signals, BIOVIA, or LabVantage. You will define a risk-based testing strategy, evaluate vendor validation packages, and lead onshore and offshore test teams. You will also serve as the primary client-facing contact for testing, ensuring every deliverable is audit-ready and aligned with GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, EU Annex 11, and ALCOA++ principles.
*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*
About the Role
As the LIMS Validation Test Lead, you will be the testing and validation authority on our Benchling implementations and enhancements. You will work closely with clients, project teams, and offshore testers to make sure each release is thoroughly tested, fully traceable, and ready for audit.
This is a hands-on leadership role. You will set the direction for how testing is done, then stay close to the work: reviewing test design, guiding execution, and making sure the evidence stands up to regulatory scrutiny.
In This Role, You Will
Testing strategy & planning
· Develop and document risk‑based testing strategies for Benchling Validated Cloud implementations and enhancements.
· Prepare detailed test plans, scope definitions, and entry/exit criteria to ensure business and regulatory requirements are covered.
· Analyze and validate vendor‑supplied validation/testing packages for Benchling; identify gaps and recommend remediation.
· Design and implement end‑to‑end STLC processes (requirement analysis, test design, execution, reporting, and closure).
· Champion risk‑based testing methodologies; perform thorough risk assessments to prioritize validation activities and manage residual risk.
Test design, execution & defect management
· Create UAT, functional, integration, and regression test scripts and test data tailored to Benchling workflows and integrations.
· Lead test execution, capture test evidence, and maintain traceability between requirements, test cases, and results.
· Oversee defect lifecycle using JIRA: logging, triage, prioritization, root cause analysis, retest and closure.
· Maintain and report test metrics and status to stakeholders; escalate risks and impediments proactively.
Domain & Benchling expertise
· Serve as the go‑to expert for testing of the user requirements for Benchling application workflows, configuration, integrations, and data model.
· Ensure test artifacts and evidence align with GAMP 5 guidance, GxP expectations, 21CFR Part11, EU Annex 11, and ALCOA++ data integrity principles.
Tooling, automation & GenAI
· Hands‑on expertise with JIRA and the Xray plugin for test case management, execution cycles, traceability, and reporting.
· Work with automation resources to design, develop, and execute automated test scripts for Benchling (Robot Framework); review automation deliverables and ensure they meet validation needs.
· Leverage GenAI concepts and AI tools where appropriate to improve testing efficiency (e.g., test‑case generation, defect prediction, automation assistance, documentation augmentation).
Team leadership & collaboration
· Coordinate and lead offshore testing teams for validation activities; ensure clear communication and alignment between onshore and offshore resources.
· Mentor and allocate tasks across test team members; provide guidance on test design, evidence collection, and compliance expectations.
· Act as primary customer‑facing contact for test status, risks, and remediation; facilitate workshops and validation reviews with clients.
Compliance & release readiness
· Prepare and review validation deliverables (validation strategy, test plans, traceability matrices, IQ/OQ/PQ or equivalent evidence packages).
· Support vendor qualification, change control assessments, and release readiness gates.
· Ensure audit readiness by maintaining complete, organized, and retrievable validation evidence.
Work Model
We strive to provide flexibility wherever possible. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a remote position open to qualified applicants in the United States. Regardless of your working arrangement, we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs.
*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*
Required Qualifications
· 8+ years of experience; 4-5 years as LIMS Test Lead (SaaS and Validated GxP test experience - Benchling preferred but could be similar Signals, Biovia, Labvantage, etc)
· A seasoned Benchling LIMS Test Lead with extensive hands-on validation experience in regulated environments.
· Candidates with 3 years in this GxP SaaS space will also be considered.
· Hands-on expertise with JIRA and the Xray plugin for test case management, execution cycles, traceability, and reporting.
Salary and Other Compensation:
Applications will be accepted until November 15th , 2026.
The annual salary for this position is between $70,000 - $123,500 depending on the experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program and stock awards, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.
Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:
- Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
- Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
- 401(k) plan and contributions
- Long-term/Short-term Disability
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, bridging the gap between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, drive tangible outcomes and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at cognizant.ai or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local laws.
