Automation Engineer (I, II, III)

Cellares; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking an Automation Engineer to enhance lab automation systems for high-throughput cell therapy manufacturing. This role involves developing and optimizing automated workflows, integrating various instruments, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in engineering or computer science, with experience in laboratory automation and programming. Join a mission-driven environment where you can tackle exciting challenges and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in technology.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in laboratory automation systems.
• Proficient in programming languages like Python or C#.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize automated methods for QC workflows.
• Conduct verification and validation testing of integrated systems.

Skills

Laboratory Automation Systems

Liquid Handling Methods

Programming (Python, C#)

Technical Writing

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Bachelor's Degree in Biotechnology

Tools

Biosero's Green Button Go

LIMS Integration

Laboratory Analytical Instruments

Job description

Join to apply for the Automation Engineer (I, II, III) role at Cellares

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to contribute to the development, implementation, and optimization of innovative lab automation systems. The role involves enabling scalable and robust end-to-end automated workflows for high-throughput cell therapy manufacturing QC testing.

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing and managing liquid handling methods, supporting the integration of off-the-shelf instruments and custom hardware within a fully automated workcell. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to iterate on system designs and develop workflow optimization strategies. Additionally, the role involves leading the development and testing of verification and validation plans for our automation systems.

Candidates should enjoy working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and be prepared to tackle a broad range of challenges as the company grows.

Responsibilities

1. Transfer and validate manual to automated QC workflow steps
2. Develop, validate, and optimize automated methods for sample preparation, analysis, and data collection
3. Design and execute validation experiments to optimize assay and workflow parameters
4. Conduct verification and validation testing of integrated systems to verify proper functionality and performance
5. Analyze automation workflows to identify bottlenecks and areas for optimization
6. Implement troubleshooting methodologies to resolve complex assay method issues

Requirements

1. Bachelor's or higher degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, or a related field
2. 4+ years of experience designing, implementing, and maintaining laboratory automation systems
3. Experience programming and optimizing liquid handling methods
4. Experience with Biosero’s Green Button Go software for automation solutions
5. Experience with laboratory analytical instruments and automated systems
6. Experience integrating and managing assay results with LIMS
7. Knowledge of flow cytometry, genomic, and cell-based assays
8. Strong technical writing skills, including SOPs, documentation, and training materials
9. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C#
10. Excellent problem-solving skills and troubleshooting abilities
11. Strong communication skills for effective collaboration
12. Attention to detail and ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks
13. Creative, self-motivated, and eager to grow with evolving technology
14. Self-awareness, integrity, authenticity, and a growth mindset