Laboratory Automation Engineer

Colossal Biosciences; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Excellent paid time off

Company-matched 401(k) retirement plan

Education reimbursement

Job summary

Colossal Biosciences is seeking a Lab Automation Engineer in Dallas, TX, to design and maintain automated systems in a dynamic laboratory environment. The successful candidate will develop automation methods, perform maintenance on integrated laboratory systems, and work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure operational reliability.

This full-time position offers comprehensive benefits including medical coverage, paid time off, a matched 401(k), and ongoing learning opportunities.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant experience with automated laboratory instruments and integrated automation systems.
• Experience troubleshooting and developing custom scripts for liquid-handling instruments.
• Strong analytical, collaboration, documentation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automation methods using laboratory control platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, software, and integration issues.
• Perform routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance activities.

Skills

Troubleshooting autonomous laboratory instruments

Development of custom scripts for liquid-handling instruments

Proficiency in programming languages (HSL, VBScript, JavaScript, Python, C++, R)

Strong analytical and communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Hamilton STAR/VANTAGE

SPT Labtech firefly+

Hamilton Venus and HighRes Bio Cellario

Job description

Job Overview

Colossal is seeking a Lab Automation Engineer to join our laboratory operations team to design, develop, test, and maintain automated systems associated with cell and molecular biology workflows. The successful candidate will support the day-to-day operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated laboratory instrumentation and integrated automation systems. This individual will work closely with scientists and cross‑functional teams to ensure reliable laboratory operations and support automation‑driven workflows. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience with laboratory automation platforms, instrumentation support, software‑driven workflows, equipment validation, and troubleshooting of automated laboratory instruments, along with a strong interest in process improvement and operational efficiency.

This position contributes to a fast‑paced and dynamic program and reports to the Director of Lab Operations. It is a full‑time, in‑person role at Colossal HQ in Dallas, TX, and requires a flexible schedule, including some early/late hours and weekend work depending on scientific team needs and equipment troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automation methods using laboratory control platforms such as Hamilton Venus/Revolution and HighRes Cellario schedulers.
• Provide hands‑on support, consumable ordering and restocking, troubleshooting, and maintenance for automated laboratory instrumentation and integrated automation systems to ensure reliable day‑to‑day operations.
• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, software, and system integration issues to minimize equipment downtime and maintain operational continuity.
• Perform routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance activities, including equipment upgrades, modifications, and validation support.
• Execute installation, testing, and validation activities to verify equipment performance, accuracy, reliability, and laboratory stability.
• Coordinate issue triage with end users, vendors, and external service providers while maintaining accurate equipment records, maintenance logs, and validation documentation.
• Train end users on laboratory automation systems and contribute to process improvements, operational initiatives, and innovations that enhance laboratory efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, scientific discipline, or a related field.
• 3+ years of relevant experience with automated laboratory instruments and integrated automation systems.
• Experience troubleshooting and developing custom scripts for Hamilton STAR/VANTAGE, SPT Labtech firefly+, and other liquid‑handling instruments.
• Experience troubleshooting and writing protocols for Hamilton Venus and HighRes Bio Cellario schedulers.
• Experience with laboratory instrumentation and automation systems.
• Strong analytical, collaboration, documentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and work well under pressure.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as HSL, VBScript, JavaScript, Python, C++, or R.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of cell line development, FACS or NGS workflows including routine cell line maintenance and expansion, stem cell differentiation, genotyping, and high‑throughput screening.
• Experience with Agilent VWorks, Beckman Coulter Tempo/Echo and Formulatrix Cellmatic/Stack schedulers.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Excellent paid time off and company holidays.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA).
• Company‑matched 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid parental leave at 100 % salary for up to 12 weeks.
• Education reimbursement.

Colossal is proud to be an equal‑employment‑opportunity workplace. We welcome people from all backgrounds and celebrate diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment of mutual respect that is free from discrimination and harassment so everyone can thrive.

EEO is the Law.