Senior Automation Engineer

Natera • San Carlos, CA

2d

About The Position

The Senior Automation Engineer in the Automation Group designs, develops, and implements complex laboratory automation and integrated systems to support robust, reliable NGS assays. This role involves independent ownership of automated solutions, from standalone instruments to fully integrated platforms, as well as close collaboration with cross-functional teams of scientists, engineers, and software developers. The engineer provides high-level support for the systems and processes they create, including both instrument performance and assay results. While capable of working independently, this role is typically part of a larger development effort and requires strong teamwork, leadership by example, and contributions beyond day-to-day responsibilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, closely related scientific field or equivalent.
• 4+ years of experience in laboratory automation engineering.
• Technical proficiency and experience in automation and systems development and integration in the life sciences industry; especially with robotics and liquid handling systems.
• Experience in programming and operating liquid handlers (Beckman, Tecan, Hamilton, etc.).
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills required.
• Excellent problem solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.
• Flexibility to support several simultaneous projects.
• Developing leadership skills.

Nice To Haves

• Background in NGS laboratories is a plus, as is background in clinical laboratories.
• Experience in software programming and data handling (including database work) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop new automation for enablement of production workflows for either new assays, or new workflows in existing assays. Development Includes:
• Conceptualization and design of system requirements.
• Identification of proper instrumentation.
• Creation and implementation of automation scripts and user interfaces, along with development of helper applications (in C#, Python, etc...) for the handling of data on the automated platforms.
• Integration to LIMS platforms.
• Develops systems in 2 very different types of environments:
• Production Development where the goal is long term stability of assay and results.
• R&D teams where the goal is short term testing and alteration for workflow development.
• Expected to take on complex projects and workflows and independently develop robust, reliable solutions that fulfill the requirements of BioDev and Operations teams.
• Takes ownership of assigned projects and generates timely status communications to project leader and/or manager.
• Handles complex troubleshooting, especially in situations where the source of the issue is unknown and investigation requires work with multiple teams - including BioDev, Eng, OPS, and BioStats.
• Expected to continuously learn and build up knowledge base around automated equipment and software.
• Write documentation and SOPs, and train engineers on the development, maintenance, troubleshooting of hardware and software systems.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Additional wellness and work-life benefits
• Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits.
• Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more.
• We also offer a generous employee referral program!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees