Laboratory Automation Engineer (Liquid Handler)

ALTEN Canada; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Toronto is looking for a Laboratory Automation Engineer specializing in liquid handling systems. The role involves programming, testing, and validating high throughput screening assays. Candidates should have a Master's degree and 3+ years of experience in laboratory automation, especially with Hamilton systems. This full-time position requires strong mechanical skills and an ability to enhance workflow efficiency. Competitive compensation and opportunities for professional growth are offered.

Qualifications

• Masters degree focused on robotics, mechanical engineering, or high throughput assay development.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in laboratory automation.
• Proven success in optimizing resource usage and throughput.

Responsibilities

• Program, test, and validate high throughput screening assays.
• Standardize automation methods for global use.
• Monitor and refine workflows based on performance data.

Skills

Laboratory automation

Hamilton systems expertise

Mechanical skills

Database management

Workflow efficiency

Education

Masters of Science or Applied Science

Tools

Hamilton liquid handling systems

SoftMax Pro

Electronic laboratory notebooks

Job description

Laboratory Automation Engineer (Liquid Handler)

Location: North York

Sector: Pharmaceutical

Job Description

• Independently program, test, and validate high throughput screening assays for formulation and assay development.
• Work proficiently with Hamilton liquid handling systems and SoftMax Pro plate readers, ensuring integration with existing laboratory processes.
• Develop quality assurance practices to validate assays for precision and accuracy.
• Standardize automation methods for global use, ensuring reproducibility and robustness across screening processes.
• Maintain detailed documentation using suitable IT tools and provide progress updates against project timelines.
• Monitor and refine workflows based on performance data and user feedback, focusing on efficiency, scalability, and innovation.
• Work with cross-functional teams (technologists, scientists, and leadership teams) to translate technical automation concepts into actionable recommendations.

Requirements

• Masters of Science or Applied Science with a focus on robotics, mechanical engineering, or high throughput assay development.
• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in laboratory automation, with significant expertise in Hamilton systems.
• Proven success in optimizing resource usage and throughput by developing and scaling automated liquid handling systems.
• Expertise in automating complex liquid handling workflows using Hamilton systems and other platforms such as SoftMax Pro and electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Strong mechanical skills applicable to laboratory automation platforms, such as liquid handlers, laboratory robotic equipment, and integration of multiple instruments/devices into a single workflow.
• Familiarity with data pipelines, database management (SQL/NoSQL), and system integration for enhanced automation and workflow efficiency.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing