Automation Support Engineer

Natera • Austin, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Support Engineer in Natera’s R&D Automation Department supports the implementation and ongoing operation of automated systems and workflows for sample processing in R&D and clinical diagnostic laboratory environments. The role works with scientists and engineers to prioritize support for liquid handlers and other automated systems, and may contribute to projects that conceptualize, design, develop, implement, and support solutions to improve equipment performance and laboratory process efficiency.

The position supports and troubleshoots liquid-handling robots, develops familiarity with their hardware and software, prepares equipment qualification and operating-procedure documentation, and oversees functional and validation testing. It also includes user training and ongoing end-user support. The engineer must travel between laboratory sites in Austin, which are approximately one mile apart, and accommodate later hours when needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, a closely related scientific field, or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of laboratory automation engineering experience.
• Technical proficiency and experience in automation and systems development and integration for the life science industry, especially robotics and liquid-handling systems.
• Experience in computer programming or a basic understanding of method writing.
• Strong project management, organizational, written communication, and verbal communication skills.
• Flexibility and self-initiative to support several simultaneous automation projects.
• Ability to travel between sites in Austin.
• Flexible schedule and availability to accommodate later hours when needed.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Exposure to automated storage systems such as Hamilton Verso and SPT Labtech preferred.
• Biotech, pharmaceutical, laboratory automation provider, or clinical-laboratory experience is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support liquid-handling robots, including troubleshooting and qualification procedures.
• Build knowledge of hardware and software for multiple laboratory liquid handlers, including Tecan Fluent, Hamilton STAR/Vantage/Verso, and Beckman I7 systems.
• Build rapport with end users and coordinate with cross-functional teams.
• Prepare equipment qualification documentation and operating procedures to support successful laboratory implementation.
• Prepare user requirements, testing procedures, standard operating procedures, and related documentation.
• Oversee functional and validation testing (IQ/OQ/PQ) of automated laboratory equipment.
• Provide user training, troubleshooting, and ongoing support for end users.
• Travel between laboratory sites in Austin to support multiple labs.
• Contribute to projects to conceptualize, design, develop, implement, and support solutions that optimize equipment performance and laboratory process efficiency.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing for employees and their immediate families.
• Fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401(k) benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Employee referral program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level