Sr. Automation Engineer

Veracyte • South San Francisco, CA

77d • $135,000 - $175,000

About The Position

Veracyte is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Automation Engineer to join our growing Automation and Process Engineering team. This is a dynamic and impactful role where you will lead the development, optimization, and validation of automated liquid handling workflows-particularly using Hamilton platforms-for the implementation of molecular Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs) in a regulated clinical laboratory environment. You will collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Clinical Operations, Software, and IT teams to design and deploy innovative automation solutions that improve throughput, reproducibility, and efficiency. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of molecular diagnostics through cutting-edge automation and process innovation. This is an onsite position based in our South San Francisco office.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of industry experience in laboratory automation, with deep expertise in Hamilton Robotics platforms (preferred).
• Strong background in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, RNA/DNA extraction, microarray, and NGS.
• Proven experience designing, programming, and troubleshooting automated workflows in a clinical or regulated lab.
• Familiarity with CLIA, CAP, GxP, and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, C#) and database integration.
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum methodologies and tools like Jira and Confluence.
• Experience with CAD design and 3D printing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power Platform and modern AI tools.
• Experience integrating automation with cloud-based data systems and bioinformatics pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and validate automated workflows for molecular assays using liquid handling platforms (eg. Hamilton) and other automated laboratory instruments
• Translate manual molecular protocols (e.g., RNA/DNA extraction, NGS library prep) into robust, high-throughput automated methods.
• Collaborate with Product Development, Clinical Operations, and Software teams to integrate automation with LIMS, bioinformatics pipelines, and data management systems.
• Lead portions or entire cross-functional projects from concept through implementation, ensuring timelines and deliverables are met.
• Collaborate with Equipment Engineering and Operations and QA on equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), calibration, and preventive maintenance procedures.
• Contribute to the development of custom 3D printed parts, software scripts, workcells, and novel automation technologies.
• Document workflows, SOPs, ERDs, and process maps in accordance with quality and regulatory standards.
• Provide technical mentorship and collaborate with internal stakeholders and external vendors.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Discretionary bonuses/incentives
• Restricted stock units
• Career opportunities in a growing company
• Inclusive workforce fostering diverse backgrounds

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees