LAS Operations Training Specialist

Abbott•Madison, WI

3d•$61,300 - $122,700•Onsite

About The Position

The LAS Operations Training Specialist – Automation develops and delivers technical training for Lab Automation Services (LAS) team members on custom-built clinical laboratory automation. Training covers break/fix, preventative maintenance, and error recovery, and evolves with the technical scope of LAS roles, including PLC, robotics, and motor control work. The specialist develops training content, trains employees across shifts, and assesses, signs off, and documents learner competency. The position serves as a subject matter expert for assigned automation platforms, maintains current technical knowledge, and supports training readiness before new automation goes live. It also includes hands-on repair work after go-live, coordination with the equipment service team, retraining and learner coaching, and compliance with the company Quality Management System and applicable regulatory requirements. The role is primarily first shift, with schedule flexibility for off-shift and weekend training and business needs. It requires regular attendance, overtime as needed, travel between Madison locations, and travel away from the work location. Physical demands include lifting up to 40 pounds and extended standing; computer or mobile-device work and typing are also part of the day. Applicable PPE requirements must be followed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (such as mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering) or a related technical field; alternatively, an Associate’s degree and 2 years of relevant technical experience as outlined in the essential duties.
At least 2 years of hands-on experience working with automated equipment.
At least 1 year of experience as a technical trainer, corporate trainer, or in related training.
Strong understanding of instructor-led, virtual instructor-led, technical, and hands-on/on-the-job training.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office products, virtual meeting tools, email, word processing, and data/records management.
Ability to demonstrate the essential duties with or without accommodation.
Currently authorized to work in the country where the work will be performed on a full- or part-time basis; employment visa sponsorship or takeover of sponsorship is not available.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds for approximately 15% of a typical day.
Ability to use a mobile device, tablet, or computer and/or perform typing for approximately 50% of a typical day.
Ability and means to travel between Madison locations and travel away from the work location, potentially overnight or on weekends.
Ability to work overtime as needed and provide schedule flexibility, including off-shift and weekend work.

Nice To Haves

Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment.
Robotics training and/or experience, such as FANUC and/or Epson.
Experience with electrical motor controls, machine design, and system I/O.
Experience working in a regulated environment, specifically under FDA, ISO, CAP, and/or CLIA.
Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and 21 CFR Part 820 requirements related to inspection, measuring, and test equipment.
Familiarity with GMP and manufacturing engineering principles.

Responsibilities

Serve as the subject matter expert on assigned custom-built automation platforms and maintain current knowledge as equipment, software, and processes evolve.
Design, develop, and maintain technical training courses, materials, and procedures for break/fix, preventative maintenance, and error recovery.
Schedule, communicate, and lead training across all shifts so team members are trained before new automation goes live.
Adapt instruction to learner needs using classroom, hands-on, on-the-job, in-lab, virtual, and other training methods.
Develop competencies, test cases, and direct observation checklists; assign them to learners, evaluate performance, and sign off on completion, including EHS competencies such as lockout/tagout and NFPA 70E.
Maintain accurate training records in learning management systems in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Perform hands-on break/fix work on assigned automation after go-live, incorporate lessons learned into training, and coach service engineers until they can complete repairs independently.
Coordinate with the equipment service team and participate in service events to keep training aligned with day-to-day practice.
Provide retraining as needed, respond to learner technical questions, and seek guidance when answers are unknown.
Support and comply with company Quality Management System policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance, work overtime as needed, and provide schedule flexibility for off-shift and weekend training.
Travel between Madison locations and travel away from the work location as required.
Comply with applicable personal protective equipment requirements.