Laboratory Automation Engineering Specialist - client dedicated

Thermofisher Scientific; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative technology company is seeking a Lab Automation Engineering Specialist in Stevenage, UK. This role involves implementing a closed-loop automation strategy, designing and optimizing robotic systems, and developing software for seamless integration. Ideal candidates have a BSc/MSc in relevant fields and at least 3 years of experience in automation engineering, with knowledge of robotics and coding. The position offers competitive remuneration, bonuses, and healthcare benefits.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration

Annual incentive plan

Healthcare benefits

Employee benefits

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in automation engineering.
• Experience with physical automated platforms.
• Knowledge of software interfaces for robotics.
• Strong team interaction skills.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project scope and develop plans.
• Design architecture for closed-loop automation systems.
• Develop and maintain robotic systems.
• Conduct testing and validation of systems.

Skills

Automation engineering

Software development

Robotics

Process Analytical Technology (PAT)

Coding in Python

Coding in JavaScript

Coding in C++

Strong communication skills

Education

BSc/MSc in Chemical Engineering, Informatics or related field

Tools

Robotic arms

Liquid handlers

Sensors

Guided vehicles

Siemens technology

Job description

Lab Automation Engineering Specialist – Stevenage, UK

Thermo Fisher Scientific is currently recruiting Lab Automation Engineering Specialists to join our dedicated team in Stevenage, UK. In this role you will be pivotal in the implementation of a closed‑loop automation strategy across various business processes, automating critical processes using digital twins and self‑driving lab concepts. You will design, maintain, and optimise robotic systems, and develop and integrate software.

Responsibilities

• Project Planning and Kickoff – collaborate with key stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, timelines and deliverables, and develop a detailed project plan.
• Requirements Gathering – collaborate with departmental stakeholders to collect requirements for the closed‑loop automation strategy.
• System Design – design the architecture for the closed‑loop automation systems, including robotic systems and software integration with digital twins and self‑driving labs.
• Development of Robotic Systems – design, build, and maintain robotic systems tailored for the automation processes. Prototype, iteratively test, and refine the systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Software Development and Integration – develop software that enables seamless interaction with digital twins and robotics systems, ensuring smooth integration with existing systems.
• Testing and Validation – conduct unit testing, integration testing and user acceptance testing of the robotic systems and software.
• Commissioning and Deployment – install and commission the automated systems within the business processes, ensuring they operate fully and integrate with existing workflows.
• Training – provide training to end‑users and produce detailed documentation for system operation and troubleshooting.
• Monitoring and Optimization – continuously monitor performance of the automated systems and work to enhance efficiency, reliability and performance.

Qualifications

• BSc/MSc in Chemical Engineering, Informatics, Software Development or a related field (preferred, other areas considered).
• Minimum 3 years of experience in automation engineering, design or optimisation.
• Knowledge and experience with physical automated platforms such as robotic arms, liquid handlers, sensors and guided vehicles (ideally Tecan/Hamilton systems).
• Experience with software interfaces for robotics platforms.
• Experience with PAT (Process Analytical Technology).
• Previous coding/programming experience preferably in Python, JavaScript or C++.
• Connectivity experience with Siemens technology.
• Strong communication skills with demonstrated ability to interact well with peers and senior personnel in multidisciplinary teams.

At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life—enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer.

We offer competitive remuneration, an annual incentive plan, bonus, healthcare and a range of employee benefits. Thermo Fisher Scientific is an innovative, forward‑thinking organization with outstanding career and development prospects.