The Automation Engineer is responsible for the development, deployment, optimization, and support of automated systems and software tools (including robotic workcells, liquid handlers, and analytical instruments) in both production and R&D environments. This role focuses on the development of individual workflows and requires a strong foundation in technical troubleshooting. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and drive engineering projects of medium to high complexity with professional guidance.

Primary Responsibilities:

Working under the guidance of their manager and senior members of the organization:

• Develop new automation to enable production workflows for new assays or enhancements to existing workflows.

• Design system requirements and implement automation scripts and user interfaces. Develop helper applications (e.g., in C#, Python) for data handling and integration with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).

• Develop systems for diverse environments, including long-term stable production workflows and short-term R&D testing environments.

• Create User and Functional Requirements documentation for new workflows.

• Develop, perform, and document test protocols and method qualifications for new workflows on automated systems.

• Take ownership of assigned projects and provide timely status reports to project leadership and management.

•  Execute defined development and continuous improvement projects to enhance system performance.

• Handle complex troubleshooting where the source of the issue is unknown, collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., Development, Engineering, Operations, and Data Science) to resolve issues.

• Provide high-level support to the service and engineering teams.

• Continuously learn and expand the knowledge base regarding automated equipment, controlling software, and scheduling tools.

• Adhere to Good Documentation Practices (GDP), lab safety protocols, and all relevant regulatory requirements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, a related scientific field, or equivalent experience.

•  2+ years of experience in laboratory automation engineering.

• Proficiency in automation and systems development/integration within the life sciences industry, specifically with robotics and liquid handling platforms.

• Experience in software programming and data handling (including database work) is highly preferred.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

• Proven ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects with strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in using controlling and scheduling software for laboratory automation.

• Skills in programming languages such as C# or Python for data handling and system integration.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, particularly in diagnosing complex issues within integrated hardware/software systems.

• Understanding of Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and safety/regulatory standards in a laboratory setting.

• Ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

• Flexibility to support rapidly changing requirements in a dynamic R&D environment while maintaining the stability required for production.