Sr Automation Engineer

Aspen Neuroscience • San Diego, CA

1d • $135,000 - $160,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Aspen is seeking a resourceful and hands-on Sr. Automation Engineer to support the development, integration, improvement, and maintenance of complex custom automation systems in a regulated biotechnology environment. The ideal candidate has advanced engineering knowledge across electrical, software, and mechanical domains to ensure reliable system performance, regulatory compliance, and effective troubleshooting. Strong work ethic and collaboration skills with cross‑functional teams are essential.

This is an on-site role in Torrey Pines, CA that requires flexibility and availability for weekend and holiday work as needed. Relocation is not available.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Biomedical, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in automation engineering, hardware design, or a biotechnology or regulated industry environment.
• Automation Engineering Knowledge: Understanding of automation engineering principles, algorithms, system architecture, and interest in emerging technologies, particularly within the custom automation environment.
• Problem Solving: Strong engineering intuition with the ability to analyze complex issues and implement rigorous, logical solutions.
• Hardware & Automation Technologies: Experience with hardware systems such as robotics, motion platforms, controls, sensors, and machine vision.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.
• Process Orientation: Strong attention to detail with a commitment to process discipline, documentation, and continuous improvement.
• Mechanical Systems: Familiarity with statics, dynamics, and motion control.
• Electronic Systems: Skilled in integration of electronic components, electric motor control, custom/off-the-shelf hardware selection, troubleshooting and system safety.
• Software Integration: Proficiency in at least one high-level programming language used for software automation and experience in integration and testing within automated systems.
• Safety: Establishing and following safety guidelines for machinery and procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Regulatory Awareness: Knowledge of GxP principles and familiarity with FDA regulations (21 CFR Parts 11, 210, 211, 820) is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced engineering principles to support the design, integration, and operation of custom automation systems, including hardware and software components.
• Understand system requirements, operational scenarios, and success criteria, and contribute to system‑level integration efforts to ensure reliable interoperability.
• Support verification and validation activities, including functional testing, to confirm systems meet defined requirements and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot complex automation issues, perform root‑cause analysis, and implement effective corrective actions in environments where system uptime is critical.
• Develop, maintain, and update engineering documentation, system specifications, test protocols, and technical reports in accordance with internal quality processes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal procedures, including GxP principles and FDA regulations as applicable.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and key opinion leaders to ensure seamless integration and successful project delivery.
• Continue to build technical expertise through mentorship, training, and exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

Benefits

• The company offers a competitive total compensation package, time-off in addition to Company observed holidays, Medical/Dental insurance benefits, onsite gym, and other wellness perks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees