LAS Operations Training Specialist

Abbott•Madison, WI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The LAS Operations Training Specialist – Automation develops and delivers technical training for Lab Automation Services (LAS) team members who work with custom-built clinical laboratory automation. Training covers break/fix, preventative maintenance, and error recovery, keeping pace with the growing technical scope of LAS roles, including PLC, robotics, and motor control work. The specialist applies technical knowledge to develop training content, deliver instruction across all shifts, and assess, sign off, and document learner competency. The specialist serves as a subject matter expert on assigned automation platforms and keeps training aligned with equipment, software, processes, and day-to-day service practices. They develop courses, materials, procedures, competencies, test cases, and observation checklists; provide classroom, hands-on, on-the-job, in-lab, and virtual instruction; evaluate learner performance; and maintain training records in applicable learning management systems. After automation goes live, the specialist performs hands-on break/fix work, incorporates lessons learned into training, and coaches service engineers toward independent repair competency. The role primarily works first shift but requires flexibility for off-shift and weekend training, overtime as needed, travel between Madison locations, and travel away from the work location. The position requires collaboration, communication, organization, adaptability, attention to detail, and compliance with company quality and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, such as mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering, or a related technical field; alternatively, an associate degree and 2 years of relevant technical experience in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.
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 a related training role.
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.
Demonstrated ability to perform the essential duties with or without accommodation.
Must be currently authorized to work in the country where the work will be performed; employment visa sponsorship or transfer is not available.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds for approximately 15% of a typical day.
Ability to work on a mobile device, tablet, or computer and/or type for approximately 50% of a typical day.
Ability to comply with applicable personal protective equipment requirements.
Ability and means to travel between Madison locations and travel up to 15% of working time away from the work location, potentially including overnight or weekend travel.

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, particularly under FDA, ISO, CAP, and/or CLIA requirements.
Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 and 21 CFR Part 820 requirements concerning 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.
Train on technical topics including electrical systems, motor controls, drives, PLCs, robotics, pneumatics, pumps, mechanisms, and valves.
Schedule, communicate, and lead training for LAS team members across first, second, and third shifts and weekend days and nights, ensuring the team is trained before new automation goes live.
Adapt instruction to learner needs using classroom, hands-on, on-the-job, in-lab, virtual, and other training modalities.
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 appropriate learning management systems in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Perform hands-on break/fix work on assigned automation after go-live, build proficiency, update training content with lessons learned, 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 and respond to learners' technical questions, seeking guidance when answers are unknown.
Support and comply with the company’s 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 work.
Travel between Madison locations and travel away from the work location as required.