Lead Automation Development Engineer (Robotics)

Reporting to the Sr. Automation Manager, the Lead Automation Development Engineer (Robotics) serves as a technical leader and subject matter expert in laboratory robotics and automation. This role drives the design, development, deployment, and sustainment of advanced automated systems across sites, delivering high-reliability solutions that enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

The Staff Engineer operates with substantial independence and is expected to anticipate challenges, develop innovative solutions, and influence technical strategy. They will lead cross-functional initiatives, guide troubleshooting on production systems, and spearhead the development of new scripts, recovery methods, and workflows. This position requires deep expertise in programming liquid handlers (mainly Hamilton/Venus), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels.

• Lead design and deployment of advanced automation systems and ensure seamless integration into production and R&D workflows.
• Develop complex automation scripts and recovery methods for new assays/workflows, including error handling, custom liquid classes, water/simulation runs, and data analysis.
• Oversee and guide troubleshooting of production automation systems to maintain turnaround time (TAT) requirements and maximize uptime.
• Analyze automation metrics and sample data to drive iterative optimization and inform future system enhancements.
• Act as a technical lead and mentor, providing guidance to engineers, development scientists, and operational staff on best practices, system capabilities, and troubleshooting approaches.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, bioinformatics, operations, and facilities teams to design automated workflows and ensure robust system performance.
• Define and communicate automation strategies, progress, risks, and solutions to automation leadership, senior stakeholders, and cross-site teams.
• Lead validation efforts, including software verification, system testing, and qualification documentation for new programs, hardware, and integrations.
• Oversee preventive maintenance and repair of advanced automated instruments supporting continuous 24/7 operations, coordinating with vendors as needed.
• Stay current with industry developments, emerging technologies, and regulatory expectations to guide long-term automation strategy.

Required Experience & Expertise

• 7+ years developing and deploying complex automation scripts and methods on liquid handling platforms (Hamilton required; Tecan strongly preferred).
• Deep knowledge of automated systems programming, including error recovery logic and method validation.
• Experience designing, executing, and optimizing molecular assay workflows (e.g., NGS or other high-complexity molecular methods).
• Strong troubleshooting skills for integrated automation systems, with a track record of resolving critical production issues.
• Experience using automation and instrument performance metrics to guide design decisions and improve reliability.
• Strong ability in software/system testing and validation practices.

Preferred Experience

• Experience leading cross-site automation deployments or serving as a technical lead on large-scale integration projects.
• Familiarity with scheduling software (HighRes, Biosero, or similar) and LIMS integrations.
• Application or service engineer experience with an instrument vendor is a plus.
• Experience with programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, and C#.
• Experience with GitHub or other version control system tools.
• Familiarity with IVD design control documentation and CAP/CLIA requirements.

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree Required.

Skills and Attributes

• Strategic mindset with strong project management skills and ability to prioritize multiple initiatives.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Clear written and verbal communication; able to engage both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build influence and collaborate across cross-functional teams.
• Operates independently, sets priorities, and drives projects to completion with minimal oversight.