Automation Engineer III

AccuraGen; Milpitas (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

AccuScan Sciences in Milpitas, CA seeks an Automation Engineer III to lead the design, optimization, and governance of automated workflows for nucleic acid extractions, NGS, and molecular assays.

You will drive strategic automation projects with labs, mentor technicians, and advance new liquid handling methods while maintaining rigorous SOPs and regulatory alignment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant science/engineering field.
• Minimum 8 years of relevant experience.
• Experience leading automation projects in biotech.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and execution of automated processes.
• Exhibits expert-level proficiency with automation platforms (Tecan, Beckman, PerkinElmer).
• Design, develop, and implement liquid handling strategies.
• Lead software configuration and programming efforts for automation.
• Takes responsibility for troubleshooting hardware/software during live runs.
• Ensures up-to-date education on automation equipment and processes.
• Drives continuous improvement projects with advanced problem-solving.
• Maintains high-level documentation and SOPs for regulatory standards.
• Provides expert guidance on automation-related matters.

Skills

Automation

Liquid handling

Leadership

Excel data analysis

Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Life Sciences

Tools

Tecan

Beckman

PerkinElmer

Job description

As an Automation Engineer III at AccuScan Sciences you will assume a strategic role, responsible for the advanced operation, optimization, and innovation of automated workflows for nucleic acid extractions, NGS, and molecular assays. The Automation Engineer III will lead strategic planning and execution of automated processes, working closely with Labs to ensure alignment with organizational goals and needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leads strategic planning and execution of automated processes, working closely with Labs to ensure alignment with organizational goals and needs.
• Exhibits expert-level proficiency in operating and optimizing Automation platforms like Tecan, Beckman, PerkinElmer, constantly researching and integrating cutting-edge technologies.
• Designs, develops, and implements sophisticated liquid handling strategies, collaborating with cross-functional teams to streamline operations.
• Leads software configuration and programming efforts, introducing advanced automation methods to enhance efficiency and precision.
• Takes primary responsibility for troubleshooting complex hardware/software issues during live runs, providing advanced technical solutions and guidance.
• Ensures comprehensive and up-to-date education on automation equipment and processes.
• Drives innovation by initiating and managing continuous improvement projects, employing advanced problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
• Develops and maintains high-level documentation, including advanced SOPs, protocols, and user guides, ensuring accuracy and adherence to regulatory standards.
• Provides expert-level guidance on automation-related matters, serving as the go-to resource for complex technical issues and decision-making.
• Takes the lead in implementing new liquid handling methods, managing changes effectively and ensuring seamless integration and documentation.
• Oversees a culture of Continuous Improvement, encouraging a dynamic environment focused on innovative solutions and best practices.
• Engages in specialized projects and initiatives aimed at pushing the boundaries of automation capabilities within the organization.

Requirements

Required

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience

COMPETENCIES

• Extensive experience in a biotechnology environment, showcasing mastery in troubleshooting liquid handling equipment and leading automation projects, especially with Tecan, Beckman, PerkinElmer systems.
• Proven track record in method development on automation platforms and driving process improvements.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to guide and inspire a team effectively.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for complex data analysis and manipulation.
• In-depth knowledge of precision, accuracy, and Six-sigma methodologies.