Senior Automation Engineer, Laboratory Automation – Analytical Sciences
About The Position
The Senior Automation Engineer will join the Laboratory Automation team within Analytical Sciences in a fully on-site role in Santa Monica, California, reporting to the Associate Director of Laboratory Automation. The position develops, implements, and optimizes automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays supporting novel engineered cell therapy products. It combines hands-on engineering with project execution and stakeholder management to improve assay robustness, workflow efficiency, and data quality. The engineer owns deliverables, maintains momentum, and proactively communicates progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in bioengineering, biotechnology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience with laboratory automation systems; the number of years is not specified in the posting.
- Advanced expertise with Hamilton liquid-handling platforms and VENUS software.
- Experience developing integrated automation workflows using scheduling software such as HighRes Cellario.
- Proficiency in Python, C++, or a similar programming language.
- Experience with cell culture, immunological assays, and flow cytometry.
- Knowledge of GMP requirements and experience in a regulated environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and attention to detail.
- Excellent written, verbal, and technical communication skills.
- Ability to proactively communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs.
- Ability to prioritize competing work, maintain focus, own deliverables, and provide clear, timely progress updates.
- Ability to balance hands-on engineering with project execution, stakeholder alignment, and business priorities.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of cell therapy development and manufacturing processes.
- Familiarity with QbD principles.
- Experience applying DoE approaches to method development.
- Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Prism, JMP, or FlowJo.
- Experience with computer-aided design tools such as AutoCAD or Fusion 360.
- Experience using 3D printing for laboratory automation applications.
- Experience with LIMS such as Benchling or Labguru and their integration with laboratory automation schedulers.
Responsibilities
- Design, build, and implement automation solutions for cell-based, immunological, and genomic assays.
- Program, test, and maintain Hamilton VANTAGE and other automated liquid-handling workstations.
- Develop and optimize liquid-handling scripts for complex bioassay workflows.
- Partner with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to translate manual processes into robust automated workflows.
- Troubleshoot, maintain, and continuously improve automated systems to ensure reliable performance.
- Support transfer of automated assay methods to Quality Control teams and external partners.
- Create and maintain SOPs, user guides, and technical reports.
- Train laboratory personnel on automation systems, workflows, and best practices.
- Evaluate emerging automation technologies and recommend opportunities for implementation.
- Own deliverables, maintain project momentum, and communicate progress, risks, decisions, and resource needs.
Benefits
- Eligibility for short-term incentive bonuses.
- Equity-based awards for salaried roles.
- Qualified retirement programs.
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and leaves.
- Health coverage.
- Dental coverage.
- Vision coverage.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
